Top 5 Richest Kings in Yoruba Land & Net Worth (2024)

The Yoruba Land is known for its rich cultural heritage, and that extends to its monarchs. In this article, we will explore the top 5 richest kings in Yoruba Land based on their wealth and assets, as determined by Forbes ranking. These esteemed monarchs not only hold significant power and influence but also possess substantial wealth that showcases their status in society as powerful Nigerian kings.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• The Yoruba Land is home to some of the wealthiest kings in Nigeria.
• Forbes ranking has determined the top 5 richest kings in Yoruba Land.
• These monarchs’ wealth reflects their prominence and power in Yoruba culture.
• Various industries, such as oil, real estate, and business ventures, contribute to their wealth.
• Their net worth showcases their influence and prominence in Yoruba society.

Below are the Top 5 richest Yoruba traditional rulers in Nigeria.

HRH FREDERICK OBATERU AKINRUNTAN – OLUGBO OF UGBO KINGDOM

HRH Frederick Obateru Akinruntan, the Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom, holds the distinction of being the wealthiest Yoruba king in Nigeria. With a net worth of $300 million, his opulence is a result of his ownership of OBAT Oil, a business empire that began as a gas station in 1981 and has since expanded to include over 50 gas stations across Nigeria. Notably, he also holds the largest petroleum depot in Africa, a significant contributor to his vast wealth.

Aside from his oil ventures, HRH Frederick Obateru Akinruntan has invested in various properties, both in Nigeria and abroad. His extensive landed property portfolio, coupled with a luxurious hotel, further adds to his impressive net worth. The Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom is renowned for his collection of luxury vehicles and extravagant yachts, which serve as symbols of his lavish lifestyle.

OBAT OIL – KEY ACHIEVEMENTS

OBAT Oil, the brainchild of HRH Frederick Obateru Akinruntan, has garnered significant recognition and success throughout the years. Here are some notable achievements:

• Established in 1981 as a gas station.
• Currently operates over 50 gas stations across Nigeria.
• Proud owner of the largest petroleum depot in Africa.
• Recognized as a prominent player in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

HRH FREDERICK OBATERU AKINRUNTAN – NET WORTH

Source	Amount
OBAT Oil	$300 million
Landed Properties	Undisclosed
Hotel	Undisclosed

HRH OBA ADEYEYE ENITAN OGUNWUSI – ONI OF IFE

HRH Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, also known as the Oni of Ife, is one of the wealthiest kings in Yoruba Land, with a net worth estimated at $70 million. Before ascending to the throne, Oba Ogunwusi had a successful career as a businessman and a certified accountant. His entrepreneurial ventures include investments in real estate projects in Lagos, such as the Jacob Mews Estate and the Lakeview development. These ventures have significantly contributed to his wealth and financial standing.

Oba Ogunwusi’s net worth is a testament to his success in the business world and his astute investment decisions. His wealth is not only evident in his financial portfolio, but also in his collection of exotic automobiles and other valuable assets. As a prominent figure in Yoruba culture and a first class king in Nigeria, Oba Ogunwusi’s affluence reflects the importance of wealth and prosperity in the traditional institution of kingship.

The Oni of Ife’s wealth and influence extend beyond Yoruba Land, as he has gained recognition and respect both nationally and internationally. His net worth is a reflection of his dedication to business and entrepreneurship, as well as his commitment to preserving and promoting Yoruba culture and traditions. Oba Ogunwusi’s financial success is a true testament to his leadership and visionary approach in both the business and cultural realms.

Net Worth	Investments	Assets
$70 million	Real estate projects in Lagos	Exotic automobiles, valuable assets

HRH OBA RILWAN AKIOLU – OBA OF LAGOS

HRH Oba Rilwan Akiolu, the Oba of Lagos, is one of the richest Yoruba kings, with a net worth exceeding $9 million. Prior to ascending to the throne, Oba Akiolu served as a retired senior police officer, bringing a unique perspective to his role as a monarch. His wealth is primarily derived from his extensive holdings of landed properties in affluent areas of Lagos, Nigeria. These properties serve as both symbols of his status and sources of income.

Oba Rilwan Akiolu’s opulent lifestyle is evident in his collection of luxurious vehicles, which further accentuate his wealth and prestige. His fleet of cars includes some of the most coveted and expensive models available. This display of affluence is a testament to the Oba’s stature in society and his ability to acquire and maintain lavish possessions.

WEALTH AND INFLUENCE

As one of the wealthiest Yoruba kings, Oba Rilwan Akiolu’s financial resources grant him considerable influence within the Lagos community. His net worth, consisting of both tangible and intangible assets, contributes to his ability to navigate the political and social landscape of the region. Furthermore, his wealth allows him to support various philanthropic endeavors and contribute to the development of Lagos and its surrounding areas.

Net Worth	Landed Properties	Luxury Vehicles
$9 million	Extensive holdings in affluent areas of Lagos	Collection of luxurious cars

HRH Oba Rilwan Akiolu’s substantial net worth, extensive land portfolio, and collection of luxury vehicles solidify his position as one of the wealthiest Yoruba kings. These assets not only contribute to his personal wealth and prestige but also allow him to exert influence and make meaningful contributions to the community he serves.

HRH OBA MICHAEL ADEDOTUN AREMU GBADEBO – ALAKE OF EGBA LAND

HRH Oba Michael Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, the Alake of Egba Land, is a wealthy Yoruba ruler with a net worth estimated at $5 million. Before ascending the throne, Oba Gbadebo served as a senior military officer, contributing to his financial success.

In addition to his military service, Oba Gbadebo has also ventured into the private sector and held positions of influence. He notably served as the chairman of the board of Oando PLC, a prominent oil and gas firm in Nigeria, further enhancing his wealth and status.

The Alake of Egba Land’s net worth is a reflection of his diversified investments and business acumen. While he may not be the wealthiest king in Yoruba Land, Oba Gbadebo’s financial success and prestigious position make him a respected and influential figure in Yoruba culture and society.

While Oba Gbadebo’s net worth may not be at the top of the list, his accomplishments and influence as the Alake of Egba Land cannot be understated. His wealth, coupled with his military background and business ventures, solidify his position as one of the notable Yoruba kings in Nigeria.

HRH OBA ALADETOYINBO OGUNLADE ALADELUSI – DEJI OF AKURE

HRH Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, the Deji of Akure, is one of the wealthiest rulers in Yoruba Nation with a net worth of $5 million. His wealth primarily stems from his successful career as a real estate developer and architect. Oba Aladelusi has undertaken numerous high-profile real estate projects in Akure and beyond, establishing himself as a prominent figure in the industry. His expertise and business acumen have played a significant role in amassing his substantial wealth.

ARCHITECTURAL ACHIEVEMENTS

As an accomplished architect, Oba Aladelusi has left an indelible mark on the landscape of Akure. He has been instrumental in the development of modern residential and commercial buildings that have transformed the city. Through his real estate ventures, he has contributed to the growth and development of the local economy while benefiting from the returns on his investments.

REAL ESTATE PORTFOLIO

Oba Aladelusi’s real estate portfolio includes a diverse range of properties, including residential estates, office complexes, and commercial centers. These properties generate substantial rental income, further adding to his net worth. The Deji of Akure’s real estate ventures have not only brought financial prosperity but also contributed to the urban development and transformation of the city.

Real Estate Ventures	Location
Akure Heights	Akure City Center
Aladelusi Plaza	Central Business District, Akure
Palmview Estate	Akure South
Heritage Court	Akure North

With his entrepreneurial spirit and expertise in real estate development, Oba Aladelusi continues to thrive as one of the richest Yoruba kings. His wealth and success not only benefit him personally but also contribute to the prosperity and growth of the Akure community.

TABLE: NET WORTH COMPARISON OF THE RICHEST YORUBA KINGS

Yoruba King	Net Worth (USD)
HRH Frederick Obateru Akinruntan – Olugbo of Ugbo Kingdom	$300 million
HRH Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi – Oni of Ife	$70 million
HRH Oba Rilwan Akiolu – Oba of Lagos	$9 million
HRH Oba Michael Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo – Alake of Egba Land	$5 million
HRH Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi – Deji of Akure	$5 million

CONCLUSION

The Yoruba Land is home to some of the richest kings in Nigeria. Wealth plays a significant role in determining the status and power of these monarchs. The top 5 richest kings in Yoruba Land, including HRH Frederick Obateru Akinruntan, HRH Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, HRH Oba Rilwan Akiolu, HRH Oba Michael Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, and HRH Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, have amassed substantial wealth through various ventures, including oil, real estate, and business investments. Their net worth reflects their influence and prominence in Yoruba culture and society.

These kings are not only wealthy but also highly regarded in Yoruba culture and beyond. Their traditional institutions hold significant importance, and their influence extends beyond their own kingdoms. With their wealth, they have been able to contribute to the development of their communities and support various charitable causes.

It is important to note that the ranking of the richest kings in Yoruba Land is based on Forbes’ assessment of their wealth and assets. The figures mentioned are estimations, and the actual net worth of these kings may vary. However, it is undeniable that these kings have achieved remarkable success and have become symbols of wealth and power in Yoruba culture.

As Yoruba Land continues to evolve and embrace modernization, the influence and wealth of these kings will continue to play a significant role in shaping the cultural and economic landscape of the region. Their contributions to various sectors of society, including business, philanthropy, and the arts, further highlight their importance beyond their traditional roles as monarchs.