Politics in Nigeria is not just about governance; it is also deeply connected to wealth, influence, and power. Plateau State, located in the North-Central region of Nigeria, is home to some of the wealthiest politicians in the country. These individuals have built fortunes through politics, business ventures, investments, and other legitimate sources of income.
In this article, we will take a deep dive into the richest politicians in Plateau State, their estimated net worth, political careers, sources of wealth, and overall impact on the state’s development. If you are curious about who the wealthiest politicians in Plateau are and how they acquired their fortunes, then this guide is for you.
Overview of Wealth in Plateau State Politics
Plateau State has a history of producing influential political figures who have played significant roles not only within the state but also at the national level. Many of these politicians have served as governors, senators, ministers, or held other key positions in government.
Political power in Plateau often translates into financial influence. Most of the state’s richest politicians are deeply involved in industries such as real estate, oil and gas, agriculture, and corporate investments. Their wealth is not only a measure of personal success but also a reflection of their political journey and leadership opportunities.
Richest Politicians in Plateau State and Their Net Worth
Below is a detailed breakdown of some of the wealthiest politicians in Plateau State:
1. Joshua Dariye – Net Worth: $60 Million
Joshua Dariye, a former governor of Plateau State (1999–2007), is one of the most prominent political figures in the state. His political career was marked by significant influence, both at the state and federal levels, as he later became a senator.
Sources of Wealth:
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Political appointments and salaries
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Real estate investments
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Business ventures in agriculture and trade
Despite facing legal controversies in the past, Dariye remains one of the wealthiest politicians from Plateau. His financial strength has allowed him to maintain strong relevance in political circles.
2. Jonah Jang – Net Worth: $55 Million
Jonah David Jang, another former governor of Plateau State (2007–2015), is a highly influential politician. He also served as a senator representing Plateau North after leaving the governorship.
Sources of Wealth:
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Political earnings and allowances
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Construction and infrastructure businesses
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Real estate investments
Jang’s long career in public service and private investments has made him one of the richest politicians in Plateau State. His influence continues to shape politics in the region.
3. Simon Bako Lalong – Net Worth: $40 Million
Simon Lalong, who served as governor of Plateau State from 2015 to 2023, is another wealthy and influential leader. He later served as Minister of Labour and Employment under the federal government.
Sources of Wealth:
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Political salaries and benefits
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Legal practice (before politics)
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Business interests in real estate and agriculture
Lalong’s combination of law, politics, and business has positioned him among the top wealthy politicians in Plateau.
4. Ibrahim Mantu (Late) – Net Worth: $35 Million
Although Ibrahim Mantu passed away in 2021, he remains one of the most remembered and wealthiest political figures from Plateau State. As a former Deputy Senate President, he wielded immense influence nationally.
Sources of Wealth:
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Political career earnings
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Oil and gas investments
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Consultancy and business ventures
Mantu’s legacy continues to inspire many young politicians in Plateau State.
5. Dame Pauline Tallen – Net Worth: $30 Million
Dame Pauline Tallen, a seasoned politician and former Minister of Women Affairs, is one of the most prominent female political figures in Plateau State. She has also served as deputy governor of Plateau.
Sources of Wealth:
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Political career salaries
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Investments in real estate
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Consultancy and advisory roles
Her contributions to women empowerment and governance have not only elevated her influence but also contributed to her financial stability.
6. Jeremiah Useni – Net Worth: $28 Million
Jeremiah Timbut Useni, a retired army general and politician, is another wealthy figure in Plateau politics. He has held several positions in government and contested for governorship in the state.
Sources of Wealth:
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Military pension and service benefits
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Real estate investments
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Business ventures
Useni’s career in both the military and politics has established him as a wealthy and respected personality.
7. Istifanus Gyang – Net Worth: $20 Million
Senator Istifanus Gyang is another influential Plateau politician with substantial wealth. Known for his legal and political career, Gyang has made significant investments outside politics.
Sources of Wealth:
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Political earnings
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Law practice
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Real estate holdings
His influence among the youth and political relevance continues to grow.
8. Chris Giwa – Net Worth: $18 Million
Chris Giwa is both a politician and businessman, popularly known in Nigerian football administration. His entry into politics further expanded his wealth and influence.
Sources of Wealth:
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Business ventures in sports and real estate
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Political salaries
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Investments in agriculture
Giwa represents the blend of business success and political leadership.
9. Beni Lar – Net Worth: $15 Million
Beni Lar, daughter of the late Solomon Lar (first civilian governor of Plateau), has carved her own political path. As a member of the House of Representatives, she has been active in politics for years.
Sources of Wealth:
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Political career earnings
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Family inheritance
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Business interests
Her legacy and current political engagement secure her a spot among Plateau’s wealthiest.
10. Solomon Dalung – Net Worth: $12 Million
Solomon Dalung, a former Minister of Youth and Sports, is another influential politician from Plateau. His career has spanned politics, academia, and business.
Sources of Wealth:
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Political appointments and benefits
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Academic background in law
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Real estate investments
Dalung’s outspoken style and leadership roles have kept him relevant in Plateau politics.
Summary Table of the Richest Politicians in Plateau State
| Politician | Estimated Net Worth (2025) | Major Sources of Wealth |
|---|---|---|
| Joshua Dariye | $60 Million | Politics, Real Estate, Agriculture |
| Jonah Jang | $55 Million | Politics, Construction, Real Estate |
| Simon Lalong | $40 Million | Politics, Law, Real Estate |
| Ibrahim Mantu (Late) | $35 Million | Politics, Oil & Gas, Business |
| Dame Pauline Tallen | $30 Million | Politics, Real Estate, Consultancy |
| Jeremiah Useni | $28 Million | Military, Real Estate, Business |
| Istifanus Gyang | $20 Million | Law, Politics, Real Estate |
| Chris Giwa | $18 Million | Sports, Politics, Real Estate |
| Beni Lar | $15 Million | Politics, Inheritance, Business |
| Solomon Dalung | $12 Million | Politics, Academia, Real Estate |
Conclusion
The richest politicians in Plateau State have accumulated wealth through politics, business ventures, and investments. Their net worth reflects not only their political achievements but also their ability to diversify into profitable sectors such as real estate, agriculture, and oil and gas.
While their financial success highlights the opportunities within politics, it also emphasizes the importance of accountability, transparency, and service to the people. Understanding the wealth of these politicians gives us insight into the political and economic landscape of Plateau State.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is the richest politician in Plateau State?
Joshua Dariye, with an estimated net worth of $60 million, is currently regarded as the richest politician in Plateau State.
2. How do Plateau State politicians make their money?
They earn from political salaries, allowances, business investments, real estate, agriculture, and in some cases, family inheritance.
3. Is politics the main source of wealth for these Plateau politicians?