Cross River State Billionaires: Top 10 Richest Men In Cross River State

If Cross River State had a currency for charm, tourism, and cultural pride, it would be the richest state in Nigeria. But let’s take a break from talking about Obudu Mountain Resort, the Calabar Carnival, and the beautiful Calabar women (yes, we see you ladies), and zoom in on something a little more cash-centric: the wealthiest men in Cross River State.

Now, wealth in Cross River isn’t always loud or Instagrammed with champagne bottles on yachts. It’s often quiet, intentional, and deeply tied to the state's rich political history, strategic investments, and yes—a bit of good old-fashioned hustle.

From politicians turned entrepreneurs to entertainers-turned-investors, this list of the Top 10 Richest Men in Cross River State is a beautiful blend of tradition, ambition, and hustle. So, grab a snack (or garri, if you're feeling nostalgic), and let’s dive into the world of big wallets and even bigger legacies.

1. Donald Duke – The Visionary Billionaire

Estimated Net Worth: $40 Million

It would almost be a crime to start this list with anyone other than Donald Duke. The former governor of Cross River State (1999–2007) is a legend. He didn’t just govern; he rebranded the state. Under his leadership, Cross River became the tourism capital of Nigeria.

He gave us Tinapa Business Resort, Obudu Cattle Ranch (now a swanky mountain resort), and of course, the Calabar Carnival—Africa’s biggest street party. But beyond politics, Duke is an entrepreneur, investor, and consultant. His business interests in tourism, real estate, and media have multiplied his post-office fortune.

He’s proof that leadership and legacy can pay off—in dollars.

2. Liyel Imoke – The Quiet Strategist

Estimated Net Worth: $50 Million

Next on the list is Liyel Imoke, Duke’s successor and another power player. Liyel is the guy who doesn’t make much noise but has a way of commanding respect whenever he walks into a room.

He’s a lawyer by training, and his calm demeanor masks a sharp business mind. After serving as governor from 2007 to 2015 and holding various federal roles, he ventured deep into infrastructure, public policy consultancy, and real estate.

Imoke’s story is that of consistency, patience, and leveraging political capital for long-term wealth.

3. Edem Duke – The Culture Capitalist

Estimated Net Worth: Multi-Billion Naira

A former Minister of Tourism, High Chief Edem Duke is the go-to name when you talk about Nigerian cultural branding. But don't let the traditional titles fool you—this man is a savvy investor.

He owns resorts, hotels, and media companies that profit from tourism and cultural events. His work in promoting Nigeria’s image abroad has paid off, not just in accolades but in hard cash. He is arguably one of the richest men in the hospitality and culture sector nationwide.

If Nigeria had a cultural stock exchange, Edem Duke would be the Dangote of that world.

4. Gershom Bassey – From Engineering to Empire

Estimated Net Worth: $30 Million

Senator Gershom Bassey is not your average politician. Before stepping into the Senate, he was (and still is) an engineer and businessman. He’s the founder of Lilleker Nigeria Ltd., one of the major construction companies in the South-South.

He’s also been a consistent figure in Cross River politics, using his influence to drive massive infrastructure projects that indirectly benefit his business. Smart move, if you ask me.

What makes him unique? His ability to blend technical know-how with political strategy to secure a seat at both the legislative and economic tables.

5. Emmanuel Ibeshi – The Connector

Estimated Net Worth: Multi-Billion Naira

Chief Emmanuel Ibeshi is like that friend who knows everyone—and everyone knows him. A former commissioner, public servant, and businessman, Ibeshi has investments in logistics, oil servicing, and property.

His ability to transition smoothly from politics to business shows how networking and reputation can be profitable. Today, his wealth is tied to contracts, property holdings, and business partnerships that span beyond Cross River State.

6. Prince Orok Duke – The Builder

Estimated Net Worth: Multi-Billion Naira

Prince Orok Duke is royalty with a passion for concrete. Literally. He made his money in real estate and construction, with several developments across Calabar and surrounding towns. He’s also heavily involved in philanthropy, building homes for displaced persons and funding local health initiatives.

When you hear that someone is a "Prince," you don’t always expect them to have bulldozers and concrete mixers in their backyard. But that’s Orok Duke for you—combining tradition with sweat equity.

7. Ubi Franklin – The Entertainment Mogul

Estimated Net Worth: Multi-Billion Naira

If you’re under 40 and haven’t heard of Ubi Franklin, where have you been? The founder of Made Men Music Group, Ubi helped launch the careers of stars like Tekno and Iyanya. But he didn’t stop there.

He diversified into tech startups, fashion, PR consultancy, and real estate. Ubi is that modern-day hustler who understands brand, media, and momentum. He may have started in music, but today, he sits among Cross River's richest entrepreneurs.

And yes, he’s got the Instagram lifestyle to match.

8. Asuquo Ekpenyong – The Young Money Senator

Estimated Net Worth: Multi-Billion Naira

Asuquo Ekpenyong is a story of ambition meeting opportunity. At 29, he became Cross River’s Commissioner for Finance. Today, he’s the youngest senator from the state, representing Cross River South.

Aside from politics, he’s deeply embedded in finance, logistics, and marine services. He runs multiple investment portfolios and has shares in financial institutions, oil companies, and transportation firms.

Young, ambitious, and razor-sharp—Ekpenyong is showing the youth that you can have both brains and billions.

9. Victor Ndoma-Egba – The Law and Order Tycoon

Estimated Net Worth: $8 Million

Victor Ndoma-Egba, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), was once the Senate Leader and later became Chairman of NDDC. But behind the legal briefs and political roles is a man with solid investments.

His law firm handles high-value corporate clients, and he’s a known stakeholder in real estate and education projects across the South-South. His wealth is a classic story of education, politics, and long-term positioning.

10. Prof. Nicholas Agiabi Damachi – The Engineer with Multiple Hats

Estimated Net Worth: $5 Million

Professor Nicholas Damachi isn’t just an academic—he's a systems engineer, former Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence, and a consultant to various multinational firms.

His intellectual capital has translated into financial capital, with investments in tech services, consultancy, and educational partnerships. He may not be on billboards, but he’s definitely at the top of invoices.

Summary Table: Top 10 Richest Men in Cross River State

Final Thoughts: More Than Just Money

The men on this list aren’t just rich; they are influential. They shape policies, create jobs, promote culture, and inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs. What stands out is how diversified their sources of wealth are—from real estate and politics to music and media.

Cross River State isn’t just a hub for tourism; it’s fast becoming a breeding ground for influential and innovative leaders in business and governance.

So the next time someone tells you Cross River is all about jollof rice and cultural displays, hit them with the facts: this state is home to some of Nigeria’s richest and most inspiring men.

And if you’re dreaming big? Let this list remind you: no matter where you start—in music, politics, law, or construction—you can build an empire.

You just have to start.