Introduction

Politics in Nigeria has always been closely tied to wealth and influence, and Zamfara State is no exception. Over the years, Zamfara has produced some of the most powerful political figures in Northern Nigeria, many of whom have accumulated vast fortunes through politics, business, and investments.

The topic of richest politicians in Zamfara net worth continues to spark public interest because wealth in politics is not only about personal luxury—it also reflects power, reach, and influence in governance. Understanding the financial standing of these political heavyweights offers insight into how politics and wealth intersect in Zamfara State.

In this article, we will explore the leading politicians in Zamfara, their estimated net worth, business ventures, and political careers. A summary table is also provided before the conclusion for quick reference.

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Overview of Politics and Wealth in Zamfara

Zamfara State, located in Northwestern Nigeria, has a unique political history. It is the first state in Nigeria to officially adopt Sharia law in 1999 under the leadership of then-Governor Ahmad Sani Yerima. Since then, its politics has attracted nationwide attention.

Wealth in Zamfara politics often comes from:

• Government positions (governor, senator, minister, etc.)

• Business interests (construction, agriculture, oil, mining, and real estate)

• Influence in federal appointments and contracts

• Family wealth and inherited businesses

These factors contribute to why Zamfara politicians are among the wealthiest in Northern Nigeria.

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Richest Politicians in Zamfara and Their Net Worth

1. Ahmad Sani Yerima – Estimated Net Worth: $600 Million

Ahmad Sani Yerima, popularly known as Yerima Bakura, was the first civilian governor of Zamfara State (1999–2007). He gained national fame for introducing Sharia law, a policy that defined his tenure. Beyond politics, Yerima has extensive business investments in construction, agriculture, and oil-related sectors.

His net worth comes from:

• Governorship and senatorial positions

• Federal political appointments

• Investments in real estate and businesses across Northern Nigeria

Yerima remains one of the most influential political godfathers in Zamfara.

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2. Bello Matawalle – Estimated Net Worth: $450 Million

Bello Muhammad Matawalle served as Governor of Zamfara State (2019–2023) before becoming Minister of State for Defence under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Matawalle is known for his strong political base and wealth.

Sources of wealth include:

• Government positions as governor and minister

• Contracts and political influence

• Agricultural and real estate ventures

Matawalle’s connections at both state and federal levels have helped him build significant financial strength.

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3. Abdul’aziz Yari Abubakar – Estimated Net Worth: $400 Million

Abdul’aziz Yari is a former governor of Zamfara (2011–2019) and a key figure in Nigerian politics. Yari has been described as one of the most powerful political financiers in Northern Nigeria.

His wealth comes from:

• His two-term governorship

• Influence within the All Progressives Congress (APC)

• Contracts and investments in mining, hospitality, and agriculture

Yari is also a former Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, which boosted his political relevance and wealth accumulation.

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4. Mahmud Shinkafi – Estimated Net Worth: $250 Million

Mahmud Aliyu Shinkafi served as governor of Zamfara State from 2007 to 2011. He succeeded Ahmad Sani Yerima, his political mentor at the time.

Sources of his wealth include:

• Political positions as deputy governor and governor

• Business investments in real estate and agriculture

• Political influence and federal connections

Although not as flamboyant as Yerima or Yari, Shinkafi has maintained steady financial influence in Zamfara.

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5. Kabiru Garba Marafa – Estimated Net Worth: $180 Million

Kabiru Garba Marafa, a former senator who represented Zamfara Central, is another wealthy politician in the state. Known for his outspoken personality and political battles, Marafa has significant investments.

His net worth stems from:

• Senatorial salaries and benefits

• Private businesses in construction and real estate

• Oil and gas ventures

Marafa has remained relevant in Zamfara politics, often acting as a strong voice against his political opponents.

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6. Ibrahim Shehu Shema (Influential Business Politician) – Estimated Net Worth: $120 Million

Though less publicly visible compared to others, Ibrahim Shehu has made his wealth through political engagements and businesses tied to federal projects. His wealth base includes mining and agricultural ventures.

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7. Mukhtar Shehu Idris – Estimated Net Worth: $100 Million

Mukhtar Shehu Idris was declared the winner of the 2019 Zamfara governorship election before the Supreme Court nullified the result. Despite this setback, Idris remains a wealthy political figure.

Wealth sources:

• Business dealings in construction and mining

• Influence in state politics

• Family wealth and investments

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8. Senator Hassan Nasiha – Estimated Net Worth: $80 Million

Hassan Nasiha, a senator and influential Zamfara politician, has also built wealth through politics and business.

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9. Other Influential Wealthy Politicians in Zamfara

While the above names dominate the list, other wealthy political figures in Zamfara include:

• Lawali Liman Dan Zomo – $60 Million

• Aliyu Abubakar Gebi – $50 Million

• Dauda Lawal Dare (Current Governor) – $75 Million (wealth from banking sector before politics)

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Summary Table of the Richest Politicians in Zamfara

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Conclusion

The richest politicians in Zamfara net worth reveal how politics and wealth are deeply connected in the state. From the legendary Ahmad Sani Yerima to newer entrants like Dauda Lawal Dare, these political leaders have built fortunes that influence governance and political structures.

Their wealth comes not only from holding political offices but also from investments in agriculture, mining, construction, real estate, and oil. Understanding their financial standing helps shed light on the political economy of Zamfara State and Nigeria at large.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is the richest politician in Zamfara State?

Ahmad Sani Yerima, with an estimated net worth of $600 million, is considered the richest politician in Zamfara.

2. How do politicians in Zamfara make their money?

Most wealth comes from politics, government contracts, real estate, agriculture, mining, and federal appointments.

3. Is Dauda Lawal Dare among the richest politicians in Zamfara?

Yes. As the current governor and a former banker, Dauda Lawal Dare has an estimated net worth of $75 million.

4. Which former Zamfara governor is the wealthiest?

Ahmad Sani Yerima is the wealthiest, followed by Bello Matawalle and Abdul’aziz Yari.

5. Are all Zamfara politicians wealthy?

Not all politicians in Zamfara are extremely wealthy, but the most influential ones usually accumulate wealth through politics and investments.

6. Do Zamfara politicians invest outside Nigeria?

Yes, many Zamfara politicians diversify their investments in real estate, oil, and businesses outside Nigeria.

7. Which sectors contribute most to Zamfara politicians’ wealth?

The biggest sectors are politics/government, agriculture, mining, construction, and real estate.

8. Has wealth influenced politics in Zamfara?

Yes, wealth plays a major role in political campaigns, party dominance, and governance structures.