Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote (GCON), will step down as Chairman of the Board of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc effective June 16, 2025, bringing an end to two decades of influential leadership at one of Nigeria’s leading sugar producers.
The announcement was made in a corporate disclosure signed by the company’s secretary, Temitope Hassan, on Wednesday, highlighting that the decision aligns with principles of corporate governance and strategic succession planning.
“In line with the principles of good corporate governance and succession planning, Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc hereby announces the retirement of our esteemed Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Company, Alhaji Aliko Dangote (GCON), effective June 16, 2025,” the statement read.
Dangote, who has served as Chairman since 2005, is credited with transforming the company into a market leader through ambitious expansion strategies and the implementation of key Backward Integration Projects in Adamawa, Taraba, and Nasarawa States, designed to boost local sugar production and reduce import reliance.
The Board also announced the appointment of Mr. Arnold Ekpe, a seasoned banker and Independent Non-Executive Director, as the incoming chairman. Ekpe, a former Group CEO of Ecobank, brings a wealth of experience from decades of leadership in banking and board governance across Africa.
“We welcome Mr. Ekpe to his new role and look forward to the next chapter in our company’s journey under his leadership. We also express our deep appreciation to Alhaji Aliko Dangote for his years of exemplary service and unwavering commitment to excellence,” the statement concluded.
The leadership transition marks a significant chapter in Dangote Group’s corporate history as it reinforces its succession strategy while paying tribute to one of Africa’s most influential industrialists.
