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Retired General Olusegun Obasanjo is a former president and once head of state of Nigeria. He has functioned in both military and civilian capacity to rule this nation. Obasanjo understands the game of international politics so well that he was, in June 2015, made chairman of InterAction Council, a body of over 30 past world leaders. He is also a regular face on international observation teams to different countries in Africa during elections. Obasanjo will always be a notable face in the politics in Nigeria. Virtually every Nigerian knows his name (even those that know little or nothing about Nigerian politics and history). That single fact means something; Obasanjo’s name can nowhere be ignored. He is arguably one of the most powerful people in Nigeria, a voice of criticism and a willing mediator when necessary.
Image credits- (Paulmiki Davids)
David Olaniyi Oyedepo is the general overseer and founder of Winners Chapel (also known as Living Faith Church Worldwide). He is a respected Nigerian preacher, businessman and author of many inspirational books. David Oyedepo is highly influential and is regarded as one of the most powerful preachers in Africa. He is also the richest priest in the world with a net worth of over $200 million. David Oyedepo is one of the most popular African pastors in the world, with a massive followership. This has given him a very powerful status in society.
Read Also- 5 Most Powerful Nigerian Deities
Image source- Graham Carlow
Business-savvy Tony Elumelu is the chairman of Heirs Holdings, United Bank for Africa (UBA), Transcorp and the founder of the widely known Tony Elumelu Foundation. Tony Elumelu is one of the biggest entrepreneurs in Africa – his business acumen is ingenious. If you are a student, you have probably heard about Tony Elumelu – including the numerous scholarships he hosts every year. Tony Elumelu has impacted a lot of Nigerian lives with his status and power.
image credits- Forbes
Femi Otedola was the former chairman of Forte oil, and the son of politician and magnate, Sir Michael Otedola. His reach spreads across multiple business sectors in the country. He is also the owner of Zenon Petroleum and Gas; and currently invests in the power sector. Femi Otedola has a net worth over $1.7 billion. He is a philanthropist with multiple donations to churches, hospitals and schools. Two of Femi Otedola’s children are also superstars in the music and entertainment industry. He has 4 children – including renowned DJ, Florence Otedola popularly known as “DJ Cuppy“, and award-winning singer Tems.
Jim Ovia is the founder of Zenith Bank, one of the largest banks in Nigeria. He is the chairman and largest individual shareholder with a stake of slightly more than 16.2%. He also owns prime real estate across Nigeria. His net worth is over $900 million (as of 2020). Just like Tony Elumelu, Jim Ovia has hosted countless scholarships for the less privileged. Jim Ovia has also received numerous awards for his impact as a businessman on the life of Nigerians.
Just like wealth, titles, ranks and basically everything else, power and status change over time. This list is subject to change, if we detect a ‘shift in power’ as we put it. And there you have it – Cyber NG’s list of the top 10 most powerful people in Nigeria.