Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man and founder of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, has announced his retirement as Chairman of the company’s Board of Directors.
The retirement will take effect on 16 June 2025, according to a statement issued by the Company Secretary, Temitope Hassan.
His departure brings to a close two decades of leadership that significantly influenced the company’s trajectory, market dominance, and governance structure.
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As one of the company’s founding directors, Dangote was instrumental in driving its strategic expansion, enhancing shareholder returns, and guiding it through key phases of industry transformation.
The company acknowledged his exceptional service, stating that the decision aligns with best practices in corporate governance and succession planning.
During his tenure, Dangote Sugar Refinery launched several backward integration projects across Adamawa, Taraba, and Nasarawa States, aiming to reinforce local supply chains and scale domestic sugar output.
The statement credited Dangote’s leadership with establishing a strong strategic and cultural framework that underpinned the company’s sustained growth.
Following an extensive succession process, the Board has appointed Independent Non-Executive Director Arnold Ekpe as the incoming Chairman, also effective from 16 June 2025.
Ekpe, a respected figure in the banking sector, brings a wealth of executive experience from leadership roles across finance and other major industries.
The company noted that his expertise in governance, long-term strategy, and stakeholder engagement makes him well-positioned to guide the company into its next chapter.
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With this leadership change, attention is now turning to how Ekpe will navigate the company through an evolving business and regulatory environment, while building on the solid foundation laid under Dangote’s stewardship.
