Gabriel Igbinedion Biography: Net Worth, Age, Wikipedia, Children, Wife, Parents, Ethnicity

Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion is a distinguished Nigerian businessman and philanthropist renowned for his vast and diversified business empire.

His ventures span numerous sectors, including aviation, banking, education, and hospitality. Igbinedion is most recognized as the founder of Igbinedion University, Nigeria’s first private university, and holds the esteemed traditional title of Esama of Benin Kingdom.

He also pioneered Okada Air, which, at its peak, operated over 40 aircraft, making him the first African to own a Boeing 747.

In addition to Igbinedion University, he established the Igbinedion Education Centre, which encompasses a network of schools and a teacher training center, further contributing to the advancement of education in Nigeria.

Profile

• Full Name: Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion
• Stage Name: Gabriel Igbinedion
• Born: 11 September 1934
• Age: 90 years old
• Birthplace: Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.
• Nationality: Nigerian
• Occupation: Nigerian businessman and philanthropist
• Height: Unknown
• Parents: Josiah Oviawe Igbinedion, Okunozee Igbinedion
• Siblings: Unknown
• Spouse: Lady Cherry Igbinedion (m. 1977)
• Children: Lucky Igbinedion, Peter Igbinedion, Omosede Igbinedion, Charles Igbinedion
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $250 million

Early Life And Education

Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion was born on September 11, 1934, in Okada, a town in the Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. He is the son of Josiah Agharagbon Oviawe Igbinedion and Madam Okunozee (née Ihaza).

Notably, he is the only surviving child of his parents. Igbinedion began his educational journey at Benin Baptist Primary School, where he completed his primary education in 1951.

For his secondary education, Igbinedion attended Eko Boys High School in Lagos, where he distinguished himself academically and graduated in 1954. Following his secondary schooling, he pursued a teacher training program, marking the beginning of his professional development.

Hailing from the Edo ethnic group, Igbinedion practices Christianity, specifically the Baptist faith. In recognition of his contributions and service, he was made a Knight by the Anglican Communion in 1992.

Career

Gabriel Igbinedion‘s illustrious career spans over six decades, during which he has made significant contributions across multiple sectors, including education, aviation, media, and real estate. His professional journey began in education, where he worked as a teacher after completing his training.

This early experience provided him with the foundation to develop his entrepreneurial drive, leading to the establishment of a small trading company in 1963. This marked the beginning of his expansive business career and set the stage for future ventures that would shape various industries in Nigeria.

In 1968, Igbinedion made a groundbreaking move by founding Mid-Motors (Nigeria) Limited, the country’s first indigenous motor assembly plant. This initiative was a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s automotive industry and showcased his visionary approach to business.

His success in the automotive sector led to a foray into aviation with the founding of Okada Air in 1982. The airline quickly gained prominence, operating a fleet that included over 40 aircraft, with Igbinedion becoming one of the first Africans to own a Boeing 747. His achievements in aviation transformed the industry, further cementing his status as a key figure in Nigeria’s private sector.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Igbinedion expanded his business empire into media and broadcasting by establishing Igbinedion Television (ITV) and Igbinedion Broadcasting Service (IBS), which became influential platforms in Nigeria’s media landscape.

This diversification highlighted his adaptability and further broadened his influence. In addition to media, Igbinedion‘s commitment to education led him to establish the Igbinedion Education Centre, which includes a network of schools and a Montessori Teacher Training Centre.

His crowning achievement in the education sector was the founding of Igbinedion University in Okada, Nigeria’s first private university, solidifying his legacy in advancing education. Beyond his business achievements, Igbinedion has been deeply involved in philanthropy, supporting educational and healthcare initiatives, earning numerous accolades for his contributions to society.

As the Esama of Benin Kingdom, he has also played a vital role in community development, further underscoring his commitment to uplifting Nigeria through both business and philanthropy.

Social Media

Gabriel Igbinedion does not have any active social media accounts.

Personal Life

Gabriel Igbinedion is married to Lady Cherry Igbinedion, who hails from Jamaica. The couple has been together for over two decades and is blessed with four children: Omosede, Ivie, Amenze, and Orobosa.

Prior to his marriage to Lady Cherry, Igbinedion was married to Mrs. Irene Igbinedion (née Kiernan), with whom he has three children.

Net Worth

Gabriel Igbinedion‘s estimated net worth is $250 million as of 2025, making him the wealthiest individual in Edo State, Nigeria.

His fortune is derived from a broad range of business ventures, including significant investments in education, media, real estate, and oil and gas. These diverse interests have positioned him as a leading figure in Nigeria’s business landscape.