Late Alhaji Mai Deribe, the renowned billionaire from Borno State, left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s history with his awe-inspiring Gold Marble Mansion in Maiduguri. This architectural wonder, known as Deribe Palace, once hosted global dignitaries, including Princess Diana, King Juan Carlos I of Spain, and George H.W. Bush, the future U.S. President. Commissioned by General Ibrahim Babangida, the mansion stood as a symbol of unparalleled luxury and opulence in the heart of the desert.
The Man Behind the Mansion: Alhaji Mai Deribe
Mai Deribe’s wealth and influence were legendary. Born into prominence in Borno, he rose to national and international acclaim as an oil magnate and philanthropist, dazzling the world with his lifestyle and generosity.
Unprecedented Wealth:
- Mai Deribe was among the first 12 individuals globally to own a customized Gulfstream G550 private jet in the 1980s.
- Estimated to have spent $100 million constructing the Gold Marble Mansion.
A Legacy of Philanthropy:
- Built 78 mosques, including the Deribe Central Mosque and other notable mosques across Nigeria.
- Sponsored over 60 boreholes in rural areas of Borno and Yobe States.
- Supported hundreds of students with scholarships to study abroad, hosting many at his London residence.
- Contributed ₦135 million ($375,000) during the 1994 Borno flood disaster for relief efforts.
The Gold Marble Mansion: A Palace Fit for Royalty
Completed in the 1980s, the Deribe Palace was a marvel of its time. Constructed with imported gold and marble, it represented a fusion of grandeur and innovation.
Features:
- Lavish interiors adorned with gold fixtures and imported Italian marble.
- A sprawling estate, perfectly landscaped and equipped with modern amenities.
- Maintenance costs reaching ₦5 million per month to preserve its pristine condition.
Dignitaries Hosted:
- Princess Diana and Prince Charles.
- King Juan Carlos I of Spain, who reportedly marveled at such opulence in the middle of a desert.
- General Ibrahim Babangida, who officially commissioned the mansion.
Mai Deribe: The Philanthropist Visionary
Mai Deribe’s charitable works extended far beyond his wealth:
- Religious Contributions: Constructed numerous mosques and Islamic schools, such as the Deribe Arabic and Islamic Schools.
- Healthcare and Education: Built the Deribe Hospital in Maiduguri and supported various educational initiatives.
- Community Impact: Provided monthly food and financial aid during Ramadan, and sponsored Hajj pilgrimages for over 44 years.
A Legacy That Endures
The Gold Marble Mansion not only epitomized Mai Deribe’s wealth but also symbolized his commitment to excellence and community development. Today, the mansion remains a cornerstone of luxury architecture in Nigeria and a reminder of the visionary who built it.
An Italian company called ‘Giovanni Monzio Compagnoni’ manufactured the house’s furniture and utensils.
Richlist Nigeria’s proudly celebrates Mai Deribe’s Gold Marble Mansion as a testament to Nigerian ingenuity and the enduring legacy of one of the country’s most influential figures.
