The world of Islamic scholarship in Nigeria is not only rich in knowledge and spiritual guidance but also, for some, in material wealth.
In recent years, the growing influence of Islamic scholars has transcended beyond the religious sphere, often intersecting with the realms of business, philanthropy, and public service. This convergence has led to a notable accumulation of wealth among a select group of scholars.
This delves into the top ten richest Islamic scholars in Nigeria in 2024, exploring the factors that have contributed to their financial success and the impact of their wealth on their communities and beyond.
1. Sa’adu Abubakar (Sultan of Sokoto)
Sa’adu Abubakar holds the title of the 20th Sultan of Sokoto. As Sultan, he is seen as the religious leader of Muslims in Nigeria.
Abubakar is the descendant of Sheikh Usman Dan Fodio, who founded the throne over 200 years ago. Usman Dan Fodio was a leader in the Maliki branch of Islam and the Qadiri branch of Sufism.
He became Sultan on November 2, 2006, after his brother, Muhammadu Maccido, passed away in the ADC Airlines Flight 53 tragedy.
As a ruler, Abubakar is quite wealthy. He receives support from the government, institutions, and private individuals in the northern region, as well as Muslim associations across Nigeria.
The Sultan of Sokoto owns a Rolls-Royce, which sets him apart as one of the country’s affluent leaders. His net worth is estimated at $100 million.
2. Isa Pantami
Isa Ali Ibrahim, commonly known as Isa Ali Pantami, is a notable Nigerian politician and Islamic scholar who held the position of Minister of Communications and Digital Economy from 2019 to 2023. His journey into public service began when he was appointed as the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) on September 26, 2016, a role he held until August 20, 2019. Following his tenure at NITDA, Pantami was nominated as a minister and officially took office on August 21, 2019.
Before entering public service, Pantami had a strong academic background. He served as a lecturer in Information Technology at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University in Bauchi. His expertise in IT led him to join the Islamic University of Madinah in 2014, where he became the Head of Technical Writing in the newly established Faculty of Computing and Information Systems. This position highlighted his contributions to the field of technology and education.
As of 2021, Pantami’s net worth was estimated to be around $70,000, which is approximately N28.1 million Naira. This valuation reflects his financial status during his time in public service.
There has been some discussion regarding Pantami’s earnings, particularly in comparison to his previous roles. Reports suggest that Pantami earned more as a professor in Saudi Arabia than he did as a minister in Nigeria, where his salary was around N45 million Naira.
The comparison of Pantami’s earnings has sparked conversations about the remuneration of public officials in Nigeria versus academic professionals abroad.
Despite the higher income he reportedly earned as a professor, Pantami chose to serve in a ministerial role, highlighting a commitment to public service. This decision underscores the varying motivations individuals may have for taking up public office, beyond financial considerations.
Pantami’s career trajectory showcases a blend of academic excellence and public service. His work in both academia and government reflects a dedication to advancing Nigeria’s technological and digital infrastructure.
As a minister, he played a crucial role in shaping the country’s digital economy policies, which have had a lasting impact on Nigeria’s technological landscape.
3. Sulaimon Faruq Onikijipa
Sheikh Sulaimon Faruq Onikijipa, affectionately known as “Allimisikilai,” is a renowned Muslim scholar with a strong presence in the Islamic community in Nigeria. He operates a popular Morikaz in Isheri, Lagos State, where he engages with the community through his religious teachings.
His Tafsir sessions, which offer detailed explanations of the Quran, are widely followed and regularly broadcast on AIT, one of Nigeria’s leading television networks. This exposure has made him a well-known figure among Muslims in Nigeria and beyond.
Onikijipa is celebrated for his eloquence and deep understanding of Islamic teachings. His sermons are noted for their humility, factual accuracy, and intellectual depth. He delivers these sermons with a calm and engaging demeanor, making complex theological concepts accessible to a broad audience. His Tafsir sessions are particularly popular during Ramadan, where they begin on the first day of the holy month and conclude on the last day, providing spiritual guidance to many.
Born on February 25, 1962, Sheikh Onikijipa comes from a distinguished lineage of Islamic scholars. His mother, Alhaja Aminat Faruq, is the daughter of Fadilat Sheikh Sa’adullahi, who served as the Imam of the historic Okekere Mosque in Oke-Male, Ilorin. His father, Sheikh Umar Faruq, is the son of Sheikh Abdullah Onikijipa and the grandson of Sheikh Muh’d Qasim Onikijipa. This rich heritage includes Sheikh Muh’d Na-Allah, who migrated from Kano and eventually settled in Ilorin in the early 19th century, contributing to the spread of Islam in the region.
Sheikh Sulaimon Onikijipa’s early education was deeply influenced by his family’s religious background. He began his studies under the tutelage of his father, focusing on the recitation and understanding of the Holy Quran. His early exposure to Islamic teachings laid a strong foundation for his later scholarly pursuits. To enhance his knowledge, he continued his education with the renowned scholar Sheikh Zakariyah Ataragba of the Agbaji quarters, known for its rich tradition in Islamic scholarship.
In 1979, with the blessing of his teachers and spiritual mentors, Onikijipa advanced his Islamic studies at Darul-Ulum Arabic and Islamic School in Ilorin, Kwara State. This institution is a leading center for Islamic education in Nigeria, known for its rigorous curriculum and distinguished alumni.
During his time there, from 1979 to 1983, Onikijipa delved into various Islamic disciplines, including Islamic legal studies (fiqh) and Islamic phonology (Surfu & Nahu). His studies at Darul-Ulum equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of Islamic jurisprudence and theology.
In 1983, Sheikh Onikijipa earned his first certificate in Arabic and Islamic education from Darul-Ulum. This marked the beginning of his formal recognition as an Islamic scholar. His academic achievements and deep understanding of Islamic law and theology have made him a respected figure among scholars and laypeople alike. His teachings continue to inspire and educate a wide audience, both in Nigeria and internationally.
Beyond his academic and religious contributions, Sheikh Onikijipa is also known for his philanthropic efforts. He has been actively involved in various charitable activities, supporting education, healthcare, and community development projects. His commitment to philanthropy underscores his dedication to improving the lives of those in need, reflecting the core Islamic values of charity and compassion.
Despite his humble demeanor, Sheikh Onikijipa leads a comfortable life, which includes owning exotic cars and residing in an exquisite mansion with beautiful interiors.
However, details about his net worth and assets are not widely publicized, as he maintains a focus on his religious and community work rather than personal wealth. His lifestyle, though modest by some standards, reflects a balance between his religious commitments and the comforts of modern life.
4. Muyideen Ajani Bello
Sheikh Muhideen Ajani Bello is a distinguished Nigerian Islamic cleric and scholar, renowned for his eloquence, profound understanding of Islamic theology, and dedication to religious education. Born in the mid-20th century in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, Sheikh Bello has become a prominent figure in the Muslim community both nationally and internationally. Now 83 years old, he continues to be a respected authority in Islamic teachings.
Sheikh Bello was born into a devout Muslim family, and from a young age, he demonstrated a strong aptitude for religious studies. His early education was deeply rooted in Islamic teachings, and he pursued formal education at various Islamic institutions, mastering the Quran, Hadith, Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), and other critical areas of Islamic knowledge.
His career as an Islamic cleric began remarkably early, at the age of 10, when he started delivering sermons and lectures that resonated with a broad audience. Sheikh Bello’s ability to explain complex theological concepts in an accessible and relatable manner quickly garnered him a substantial following.
Over the years, he has been invited to speak at numerous mosques, Islamic centers, and events worldwide, further solidifying his reputation.
One of Sheikh Bello’s most significant contributions is his work in Islamic education. He has played a pivotal role in establishing and managing several Islamic schools and institutions.
These institutions aim to provide high-quality education while instilling Islamic values in their students. Sheikh Bello’s commitment to education extends beyond traditional religious teachings, as he also promotes a well-rounded curriculum that includes modern sciences and humanities.
His legacy is characterized by his dedication to knowledge, peace, and community development. Through his teachings, writings, and public engagements, Sheikh Bello has made a lasting impact on the Muslim community. His efforts to promote understanding and unity among people of different faiths continue to inspire many, highlighting his role as a bridge-builder in society.
In recognition of his numerous contributions, Sheikh Bello has received various awards and honors from religious and educational organizations. His work is celebrated not only for its depth and scholarship but also for its emphasis on practical applications in everyday life.
Sheikh Bello’s influence extends beyond the Muslim community, as his advocacy for education and interfaith dialogue has touched people of diverse backgrounds. His emphasis on a balanced education that incorporates both religious and secular knowledge underscores his progressive approach to learning and development.
As a respected figure in the Muslim community, Sheikh Bello’s teachings and initiatives have helped shape the religious and educational landscape in Nigeria and beyond. His ongoing commitment to fostering understanding, peace, and community well-being continues to inspire both current and future generations.
5. Mojeed Eleha
Sheikh Mojeed Eleha, the founder of Darul-Islam, is a prominent Muslim cleric in Nigeria, well-known for his popular Tafsir sessions in Lagos. His mosque in the Isheri, Igando area consistently draws large crowds of Muslims eager to listen to his teachings.
Often referred to as “Ali-Sunnah” for his strict adherence to the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, Sheikh Mojeed Eleha is respected for his sincerity and straightforwardness. His reputation for honesty has garnered him a significant following and respect within the Muslim community.
Sheikh Mojeed Eleha also oversees the Darul-Islam Schools and Foundation in Isheri Olowora, Lagos, which are known for providing quality Islamic education. He is committed to fostering Islamic knowledge and values through these institutions.
On September 25, 2011, Sheikh Mojeed Eleha established Daaru Nalm College, further expanding his educational initiatives. This institution aims to provide a comprehensive education that integrates Islamic teachings with a modern curriculum.
During Ramadan, Sheikh Mojeed Eleha’s Tafsir sessions are broadcast daily on TVC, reaching a wider audience beyond those who attend in person. These broadcasts have made his teachings accessible to a broader spectrum of Muslims.
Sheikh Mojeed Eleha’s contributions to Islamic education and his role as a spiritual leader have made him a respected figure in Nigeria’s Muslim community. His commitment to teaching and upholding the principles of Islam continues to inspire many.
6. Sheikh Taofeeq Akewugbagold
Sheikh Taofeeq Akewugbagold, popularly known as Akewugbagold, is a prominent Islamic cleric based in Ibadan, Nigeria. He is widely recognized for his significant contributions to Islamic preaching and community service, which have earned him a respected place within the Muslim community.
Although details about Akewugbagold’s early life and background are relatively private, his impact through religious teachings and leadership is well-known. He has gained considerable attention for his influential radio and television programs, where he offers religious guidance and delivers sermons that resonate with a wide audience.
A particularly notable and tragic event in his life occurred in April 2020, when his twin children, Taiwo and Kehinde, were kidnapped at gunpoint from his residence in Ojoo, Ibadan. This harrowing incident happened while Akewugbagold was recording a Ramadan lecture in a studio. The kidnapping drew significant media attention and widespread public sympathy, especially because the twins were born after his wife endured a 12-year period of infertility.
The community and nation followed the case closely, deeply moved by the ordeal faced by Akewugbagold and his family. Fortunately, after eight tense days, the children were released unharmed.
Demonstrating remarkable compassion, Akewugbagold chose to forgive the kidnappers, even urging the court to release them after they had spent 11 months in a correctional facility.
In addition to his religious duties, Akewugbagold has played an important role in public service. He served as the Chairman of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Muslim Wing) during the administration of former Governor Abiola Ajimobi.
In this capacity, he was instrumental in organizing and overseeing the pilgrimage activities for Muslims in the state, ensuring a smooth and spiritually fulfilling experience for the pilgrims.
Akewugbagold’s leadership and dedication in these roles have solidified his standing as a key figure in the Islamic community. His work extends beyond just religious teachings; he is known for his compassionate and empathetic approach to both his followers and those outside his immediate circle.
His deep knowledge of Islamic laws and his ability to communicate them effectively have made him a sought-after speaker and a trusted advisor within the community.
Akewugbagold’s teachings often emphasize peace, understanding, and tolerance, values that he embodies in his personal and public life.
Despite the challenges he has faced, including the traumatic experience of his children’s abduction, Akewugbagold remains committed to his mission of spreading Islamic teachings and serving his community. His decision to forgive the kidnappers highlighted his commitment to the principles of forgiveness and compassion.
7. Sheikh Ibraheem Yaqoub Zakzaky
Sheikh Zakzaky, a notable Nigerian cleric, was born in May 1953 in Zaria, Kaduna State. His parents were Islamic scholars specializing in Qur’anic exegesis and supported their family primarily through farming.
Zakzaky’s early education was deeply rooted in Islamic teachings. He began by learning the Qur’an under his father’s guidance and also attended a nearby Qur’anic school.
Alongside his brother, Zakzaky assisted his father on the farm. By the age of 14, he had memorized the entire Qur’an and subsequently pursued studies in other religious texts under various scholars.
From 1969 to 1975, Zakzaky attended the Zaria Provincial School, where he focused on Arabic literature. He then continued his studies at the School of Arabic Studies (SAS) in Kano. In 1976, he enrolled at Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, where he earned a degree in Economics in 1979. However, his certificate was withheld due to his Islamic activism.
During his time at the university, Zakzaky was actively involved in the Muslim Students’ Society (MSS), serving as Secretary-General and later as Vice Chairman overseeing international affairs. His involvement in the society marked the beginning of his active role in Islamic advocacy and leadership.
Today, Sheikh Zakzaky is the leader of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, commanding a significant following of over 20 million supporters. He became more widely known in 2014 and 2015 following clashes with the Nigerian military, which targeted him and his followers.
Before his arrest in December 2015, Zakzaky conducted weekly classes on Qur’anic exegesis and Nahjul Balagha at the Husainiyyah Baqiyatullah. Unfortunately, this center was destroyed during a military assault, marking a significant event in his movement’s history.
Zakzaky is married to Zeenatudeen Ibraheem, and they have nine children. Tragically, six of their children are deceased, a fact that adds a poignant element to Zakzaky’s personal and public life.
Despite the challenges and persecution he has faced, Sheikh Zakzaky remains a significant religious and political figure in Nigeria. His leadership and teachings continue to influence a large community of followers dedicated to his vision and message.
8. Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi
Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, born on June 28, 1927, in East Gombe, Nigeria, is a distinguished Islamic scholar and the supreme leader of the Tijaniyyah Sufi order in Nigeria. His lineage is steeped in Islamic scholarship, with both his father, Alhaji Usman, and his grandfather having memorized the Qur’an.
His mother, Hajiya Maryam, also played a crucial role in his early religious education.
From a young age, Dahiru Bauchi exhibited a deep interest in Islamic studies. He memorized the entire Qur’an under his father’s guidance and later pursued studies under several esteemed Islamic scholars, including Shaykh Tijani Usman Zangon-Bare-bari, Shaykh Abubakar Atiku, and Shaykh Abdulqadir Zaria. His education in Islamic jurisprudence, Arabic grammar, and Sufism provided a solid foundation for his future contributions to Islamic scholarship.
Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi’s influence extends well beyond Nigeria. He has traveled extensively across the globe to disseminate Islamic teachings and has performed the Hajj pilgrimage more than 50 times. His expertise in Qur’anic recitation and tafsir (interpretation of the Qur’an) is highly regarded, and he has made significant contributions to Islamic scholarship.
Over his lifetime, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi established more than 1,500 Qur’an memorization centers, where over 140,000 individuals have successfully memorized the Qur’an under his guidance. His efforts have had a profound impact on Islamic education, promoting the memorization and understanding of the Qur’an.
His family is notably extensive, with Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi having over 95 children, many of whom have followed his example by memorizing the Qur’an. His family tree includes a large number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren, all contributing to the continuation of his legacy of Islamic scholarship.
Despite his prominent status in the Islamic world, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi has faced challenges. One notable incident occurred in 2009 when he was arrested in Saudi Arabia due to doctrinal disputes among Nigerian Islamic groups. This incident highlighted the complexities and tensions within Islamic communities.
Nevertheless, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi remains a highly respected figure in the Islamic world. He has received numerous awards and honorary degrees in recognition of his significant contributions to Islamic education and spirituality.
His dedication to spreading Islamic knowledge has earned him widespread admiration.
Throughout his life, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi has been a beacon of Islamic learning and leadership.
His commitment to education and his extensive contributions to Islamic scholarship have cemented his status as a leading figure in the Tijaniyyah Sufi order and beyond.
9. Sheikh Habeebullah Adam Al-Ilory
Sheikh Habeebullah Adam Al-Ilory is a distinguished Nigerian Islamic scholar and currently serves as the rector of the Markaz Arabic and Islamic Training Centre in Agege, Lagos. Born into a family deeply embedded in Islamic scholarship, he is the son of Sheikh Adam Abdullah Al-Ilory, a highly respected scholar and the founder of the Markaz institution.
Sheikh Habeebullah began his Islamic education under the guidance of his father, where he built a strong foundation in religious studies. He later pursued advanced education at Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt, a prestigious institution renowned for its Islamic learning. After completing his studies, Sheikh Habeeb returned to Nigeria to take on leadership roles within the Markaz institution.
Under Sheikh Habeeb’s leadership, Markaz has continued to flourish as a premier center for Arabic and Islamic education in West Africa. He has played a crucial role in modernizing the curriculum and expanding the institution’s reach throughout the region, thereby enhancing its educational impact.
In addition to his administrative and educational roles, Sheikh Habeeb is known for his dynamic preaching and active participation in various Islamic organizations. His contributions have been vital in promoting Islamic teachings and fostering a greater understanding of Islam in the region.
Despite his achievements, Sheikh Habeeb has faced significant health challenges. In February 2022, he experienced a stroke while delivering a sermon in Ilorin, Kwara State, which necessitated medical intervention and a period of recovery.
Sheikh Habeeb’s dedication to Islamic education is widely recognized. His efforts extend beyond the classroom as he works to promote peaceful religious coexistence and address various societal issues through his teachings and leadership.
Throughout his career, Sheikh Habeeb has been a strong advocate for integrating modern approaches with traditional Islamic education. His leadership at Markaz reflects his commitment to enhancing the quality and scope of Islamic learning.
Despite the health setbacks, Sheikh Habeeb remains an influential figure in Islamic scholarship. His continued involvement in the Markaz institution and his contributions to the broader Islamic community underscore his enduring commitment to his faith and educational mission.
10. Sheikh Abubakar Musa
Sheikh Abubakar Musa is a prominent leader in the Islamic community of Northern Nigeria. He has accumulated significant wealth through his ventures in Islamic banking and extensive property investments.
Sheikh Musa is also a well-regarded speaker at international Islamic conferences, which has further contributed to his substantial net worth.
His early Islamic education was conducted under the mentorship of his father and other local scholars, focusing on the Quran and various Islamic sciences. This foundational learning fueled his desire to pursue advanced studies at prestigious Islamic institutions, where he acquired extensive knowledge in theology, jurisprudence, and Arabic literature.
Sheikh Abubakar’s commitment to Islamic scholarship earned him a prominent position within the Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah (JIBWIS), a major Islamic organization in Nigeria. He played a crucial role in the organization’s mission to promote orthodox Islamic teachings and combat practices deemed un-Islamic within the Muslim community.
Throughout his career, Sheikh Abubakar was deeply involved in teaching, preaching, and writing. He established numerous Islamic schools and centers that became pivotal for religious education and community development. His lectures and sermons were highly respected for their depth and spiritual insight, attracting a wide audience.
His influence extended beyond Nigeria as he participated in various international Islamic conferences and collaborated with scholars from around the world. His efforts in da’wah (Islamic propagation) were widely acknowledged for their impact on promoting Islamic values and fostering unity among Muslims globally.
In addition to his scholarly and educational contributions, Sheikh Abubakar was also known for his humanitarian work. He actively supported education and social welfare projects, further solidifying his legacy within the Muslim community.
Sheikh Abubakar’s contributions to Islamic scholarship and community service have left a lasting impression.
His work continues to inspire many, reflecting his dedication to advancing Islamic education and improving the welfare of his community.
Despite his significant achievements, Sheikh Abubakar remains dedicated to his faith and to the betterment of the Muslim community. His legacy encompasses both his scholarly achievements and his impactful humanitarian efforts.
