By Emmanuel Sikena
LAGOS, NIGERIA – Aliko Dangote, Africa’s wealthiest individual, is stepping down as Chairman of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, effective June 16, 2025, concluding a distinguished 20-year tenure leading the company’s board. The announcement marks a significant transition for the sugar giant, founded by Dangote in 2005 and transformed into a powerhouse within Nigeria’s sugar industry under his stewardship.
“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 company stated in a press release.
Dangote’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the Dangote Group into one of Nigeria’s most recognizable and successful brands. His vision and strategic direction have propelled Dangote Sugar to the forefront of the industry.
Arnold Ekpe Appointed as Successor
The board of Dangote Sugar Refinery has appointed Arnold Ekpe, a seasoned executive with extensive experience in Africa’s banking and industrial sectors, as the new Chairman. Ekpe, currently an Independent Non-Executive Director of the company, will assume the role on June 16, 2025.
“Following a rigorous selection and transition process, the Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Arnold Ekpe… as the new Chairman of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc… 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 continued.
Ekpe’s wealth of experience is expected to provide strong leadership and strategic guidance as Dangote Sugar Refinery embarks on its next phase of growth.
Retirement Follows Recent Birthday Celebrations
Dangote’s retirement comes shortly after his 68th birthday, celebrated with tributes from industry leaders and Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who lauded his contributions to the industrialization of Nigeria. The celebrations included custom-designed cakes from major Nigerian banks, including Guaranty Trust Bank, Access Bank, and First City Monument Bank, each depicting Dangote’s diverse business ventures – a refinery, a cement factory, and a mosque – symbolizing his significant industrial, economic, and cultural influence.
Dangote Expands Business Footprint with Kenyan Acquisition
Meanwhile, Dangote continues to expand his business empire, recently acquiring Pollman’s Tours and Safaris, Kenya’s oldest tour operator, through his Africa Travel Investments. The deal, valued at KSh 4 billion, was approved by the Competition Authority of Kenya, which confirmed it would not negatively impact market competition, employment, or small businesses due to the distinct sectors in which the buyer and target operate. This acquisition signals Dangote’s growing interest in the African tourism sector and his continued commitment to investing in diverse industries across the continent.
