When billionaires in Nigeria are mentioned, names like Aliko Dangote, Femi Otedola, and Tony Elumelu dominate the conversation. Yet, there exists another class of billionaires—those who operate in the shadows, quietly amassing wealth and influence while reshaping industries. Among them is Abdullahi Bashir Haske, a name that may not be widely recognized but commands significant power in Nigeria’s economic and industrial landscape.
Unlike his more publicized counterparts, Haske thrives on strategic discretion, allowing his businesses and philanthropic efforts to speak louder than any media campaign. Over the years, his influence has expanded beyond business, subtly intertwining with Nigeria’s political fabric.
From Humble Beginnings to Billionaire Status
Born on December 13, 1987, in Yola, Adamawa State, Haske grew up in a society where success was often dictated by political connections rather than sheer determination. However, his rise is a testament to his business acumen and calculated risk-taking.
After earning a Diploma in Political Studies from the University of Abuja and an MBA in Economics from Lagos Business School, he supplemented his education with various international certifications, refining his expertise in finance, oil and gas, and business development.
He began his career in 2005 as a general contractor, navigating Nigeria’s business terrain through sectors like oil and gas, construction, and public procurement. While many business ventures struggle to survive past infancy, Haske not only sustained his but built an empire. Today, he serves as the Group Managing Director of AA&R Investment Group, a conglomerate with interests in oil and gas, marine services, aviation, agriculture, ICT, and logistics.
Beyond AA&R, Haske chairs several companies, including:
- Haske & Williams Limited (pioneering commercial agriculture in Nigeria)
- Etihad Trading Limited
- Etihad Energy Limited
- Nitro Switch Ltd
- Mars Aviation Ltd
- H&W Rice Co Ltd
His businesses are not just about wealth accumulation; they are engines of job creation, especially in Adamawa State, where he has established a rice mill and a cassava starch processing plant, employing thousands of Nigerians.
Philanthropy Beyond Borders
A true billionaire is not just measured by wealth but by impact on society. Haske does not seek public validation for his philanthropic efforts; yet, the results are undeniable.
Through the Abdullahi Bashir Haske Foundation, he has spearheaded public health programs, disease eradication initiatives, and small business grants across northern and north-central Nigeria. His generosity extends to both Muslims and Christians, fostering unity in a region often plagued by division.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, while many high-profile Nigerians remained silent, Haske distributed palliatives to over 14,000 residents across Adamawa State’s 21 local government areas. His commitment to public welfare has earned him admiration, even from critics.
Criticism, Controversies, and Industry Politics
Haske’s meteoric rise has not been without scrutiny. Some critics argue that his success is the result of high-level political connections, particularly with former NNPC Group Managing Director Maikanti Baru. Others counter that influence alone cannot sustain a business empire of such magnitude without competence and vision.
One of his most significant business moves was the acquisition of a 51% stake in Addax Oil Bloc in March 2020. This deal, however, was mired in controversy. The Federal Government initially revoked Addax Petroleum’s licenses over inactivity but later reversed the decision. Haske’s involvement raised eyebrows, with some alleging preferential treatment due to his connectionsHere’s the edited and screened version of the story with a suggested headline:
The Quiet Titan: The Billionaire Influence of Abdullahi Bashir Haske
When billionaires in Nigeria are mentioned, the likes of Aliko Dangote, Femi Otedola, and Tony Elumelu dominate the conversation. Yet, there exists another class of billionaires—those who operate in the shadows, quietly amassing wealth and influence while reshaping industries. Among them is Abdullahi Bashir Haske, a name that may not be widely recognized but commands significant power in Nigeria’s economic and industrial landscape.
Unlike his more publicized counterparts, Haske thrives on strategic discretion, allowing his businesses and philanthropic gestures to speak louder than any media campaign. Over the years, his influence has expanded beyond business, subtly intertwining with Nigeria’s political fabric.
Born in Yolo, Adamawa State, in 1987, Haske’s rise to billionaire status is a testament to his business acumen and calculated risk-taking. After earning degrees and certifications, he began his career as a general contractor, navigating Nigeria’s business terrain through sectors like oil & gas, construction, and public procurement. His ventures not only survived but thrived, leading him to become the Group Managing Director of the AA&R Investment Group, a conglomerate with interests in various industries.
Haske’s philanthropic efforts are equally impressive, as he has spearheaded public health programs, disease eradication initiatives, and small business grants across northern and north-central Nigeria through his foundation. His generosity extends to both Muslims and Christians, fostering unity in a region often plagued by division.
While Haske’s success has attracted some criticism and controversies, including allegations of high-level political connections, his competence and vision are undeniable. His company, Etihad Oilfield, was credited with discovering oil in the Kolmani River area of Bauchi State, a landmark achievement for Nigeria’s oil sector.
As the Haske family’s political ambitions emerge, with Haske’s brother, Abdulrahman, aspiring to the Adamawa State governorship, the potential for a Haske political dynasty looms. This move could cement the family’s influence in both business and governance, reshaping the future of the state.
Abdullahi Bashir Haske’s strategic silence, coupled with his bold business moves, has ensured that while he may not trend on social media like some billionaires, he remains one of Nigeria’s most powerful industrialists under 40, shaping the country’s economic and political landscape from the shadows.
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