Aliko Dangote
Aliko Dangote, Africa's richest person, built a business empire in cement, sugar, flour, and oil.
Entrepreneur
April 10, 1957
68
Aliko Dangote, born on April 10, 1957, in Kano, Nigeria, is a renowned entrepreneur and industrialist. He is the founder, chairman, and CEO of the Dangote Group, the largest industrial conglomerate in West Africa. With a net worth estimated at $13.5 billion (as of 2023), Dangote remains Africa’s richest person and the world’s richest Black person.
Dangote’s business acumen was evident from a young age when he ventured into commodity trading. In 1977, he established the Dangote Group, which has grown into a diversified business empire operating in sectors such as cement, sugar, flour, salt, and real estate. His entrepreneurial success has earned him numerous accolades, including being consistently ranked as Africa’s richest person by Forbes magazine and becoming the first Black person to be listed among the world’s 50 richest people in 2014.
Dangote’s contributions extend beyond business. He is recognized for his philanthropic efforts and has made significant contributions to various charitable causes, including education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation. His commitment to African entrepreneurship and economic development has made him an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs across the continent.
One of Dangote’s notable achievements is owning the largest cement plant in Africa, located in Obajana, Nigeria. His business empire employs over 30,000 people across Africa, and he has expressed interest in acquiring Arsenal Football Club in the English Premier League.
Aliko Dangote’s journey epitomizes African business success. His vision, determination, and commitment to excellence have transformed him into a symbol of inspiration for entrepreneurs worldwide.
