Nigerian industrialist Abdulsamad Rabiu is experiencing the fastest wealth growth among African billionaires in 2026, according to Bloomberg data. His net worth climbed to $15.9 billion as of April 27, driven by a year-to-date gain of $5.78 billion.
Rabiu's Rise in African Billionaire Rankings
The increase has strengthened Rabiu's position, moving him to third place in Africa's wealth ranking. His wealth comes primarily from BUA Group, BUA Cement, and BUA Foods. Rabiu's rapid rise has narrowed the gap with South Africa's Johann Rupert & family, whose net worth stands at $18.0 billion but recorded a year-to-date loss of $1.42 billion.
Other African Billionaires' Performance
Aliko Dangote remains Africa's richest man with a net worth of $33.6 billion, adding $3.67 billion year-to-date. Natie Kirsh also enjoyed a strong 2026, with his net worth increasing to $15.2 billion, gaining $5.49 billion year-to-date. Nicky Oppenheimer saw his fortune rise modestly to $14.3 billion, while Egypt's Nassef Sawiris experienced a slight decline to $9.56 billion.
- Aliko Dangote: $33.6 billion (+$3.67 billion YTD)
- Johann Rupert & family: $18.0 billion (-$1.42 billion YTD)
- Abdulsamad Rabiu: $15.9 billion (+$5.78 billion YTD)
- Natie Kirsh: $15.2 billion (+$5.49 billion YTD)
- Nicky Oppenheimer: $14.3 billion (+$475 million YTD)
- Nassef Sawiris: $9.56 billion (-$24.9 million YTD)
BUA Foods Announces Record Profit
Earlier reports indicated that BUA Foods Plc, Nigeria's most valuable listed company, posted a record net profit of N507.7 billion in 2025, nearly double the previous year's N266.0 billion. Revenue rose 18.1% to N1.80 trillion, supported by higher volumes and pricing across sugar, flour, pasta, and rice staples.
