5 Most Expensive Nigerian Weddings of All Time

Nigerians no dey carry last when it comes to throwing lively, grand, and super fun weddings. From jaw-dropping decorations to gorgeous aso-ebi fabrics and top-notch entertainment, these events are always “parte after parte.”

It’s a chance for everyone to shine, set trends, and enjoy themselves. You’ll see stylish ladies and aunties rocking their dramatic geles (head ties) and different aso-ebi styles, showing just how creative and expressive we Nigerians are.

But beyond the fun, weddings are also a big show of wealth, with families coming together to plan grand, expensive ceremonies for their children.

 In this article, we will discuss the five most expensive weddings in Nigeria setting the pace for other luxurious weddings.

Here are the five most expensive weddings organised in Nigeria:

1. Fatima Dangote and Jamil Abubakar 

In 2018, Jamil Muhammed Abubakar, son of former Inspector General of Police Mohammed Dikko Abubakar, married Fatima Dangote, daughter of billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote, in a fairy-tale wedding that spanned three days across four cities: Kano, Kaduna, Abuja, and Lagos.

The 8-part celebration began in Kaduna, where the bride’s mother hosted a dinner to kick off the festivities.

In Kano, the wedding Fatiha took place, with President Muhammadu Buhari, acting as the bride’s guardian, leading the ceremony.

The Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, also officiated the Islamic marriage rites. The groom’s family then hosted a dinner reception in Abuja, followed by a grand finale in Lagos, where Aliko Dangote treated guests to a luxurious dinner at the Eko Convention Centre.

This high-profile wedding was a massive celebration of love and made waves on social media, with the hashtag #Famil2018 trending as photos of the event circulated.

Notable figures like Bill Gates, Abdulsalami Abubakar, and Nana Akufo-Addo were among the dignitaries who attended the lavish affair.

2. Halima Babagida and Auwal Lawal

In May 2017, Halima Babangida, daughter of former military head of state Ibrahim Babangida, tied the knot with Auwal Lawal in a lavish wedding that drew Nigeria’s elite.

Reports indicated that over 24 private jets landed at Minna’s airport, filled with dignitaries attending the high-profile event.

The wedding dinner was held at Ibrahim Babangida’s El-Amin International School in Minna, with a classy, heavenly-themed decor highlighted by touches of gold.

The reception venue was adorned with sparkling crystal strings and white paper clouds hanging from the ceiling, while Grecian ornaments and glass centrepieces added elegance to the setup.

The cake was surrounded by a bed of flowers and candles, creating a magical atmosphere. Guests were treated to a luxurious dining experience, with gold-plated cutlery and Versace plates reserved for the bride and groom’s table.

The event also attracted Nigerian celebrities, including Funke Akindele, Wande Coal, and Mr Eazi, adding even more glamour to the occasion.

3. Zahra Buhari and Ahmed Indimi

In 2016, Zahra Buhari, daughter of President Muhammadu Buhari, married Ahmed Indimi, son of Nigerian tycoon Muhammed Indimi, in a grand celebration that took place across three states: the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Borno, and Maiduguri.

The wedding reception carried a “Royalty” theme and truly embodied the elegance and grandeur it promised.

In the lead-up to the wedding, Zahra reportedly received luxurious Louis Vuitton boxes from the Indimi family, adding an extra touch of affluence to the already extravagant occasion.

4. Folarin Alakija and Nazanin Jafarian

Folarin Alakija, one of the four sons of oil tycoon Folorunsho Alakija, married Iranian-born Nazanin Jafarian Ghaissarifar in a lavish ceremony at Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire.

This wedding was the talk of both Nigeria and the UK, costing about £5 million! The venue alone was around £150,000, and they spent approximately £200,000 on a bespoke marquee and marble flooring.

Each guest’s meal cost about £52. Their impressive eight-tier cake was estimated at up to £10,000, and the breathtaking flowers set them back around £200,000.

In true Nigerian style, no expense was spared to make the wedding spectacular and unforgettable for the couple.

5. Yusuf Buhari and Zahra Nasir Bayero

In 2021, Yusuf Buhari, the son of President Muhammadu Buhari, married Zahrah, the daughter of the Emir of Bichi, Nasiru Ado Bayero.

The wedding attracted many important guests, with private jets landing at Kano airport, filled with Nigerian elites. President Buhari is said to have set up a 145-member committee to help plan the event.

Even though the wedding was scaled down, several high-profile guests, like former President Goodluck Jonathan, Niger’s former President Mohammadou Issoufou, and Fatama Bah Barrow, attended the ceremony.