When you hear the name Aliko Dangote, you think of industrial giants, market leadership, and unparalleled business acumen. Now, a significant chapter in his illustrious career is drawing to a close. After two decades at the helm, Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote (GCON), is officially retiring as Chairman of the Board of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc. His retirement is set to take effect very soon, on June 16, 2025.
This announcement, confirmed by the company’s secretary, Temitope Hassan, in a statement released on Wednesday, marks the end of a remarkable 20-year journey. Since taking the leadership reins in 2005, Dangote has been the driving force behind Dangote Sugar’s incredible transformation. He’s widely credited with steering the company to become not just a major player, but the undisputed market leader in Nigeria’s crucial sugar industry. Under his visionary guidance, the company undertook massive expansion projects and significantly strengthened its corporate governance practices, setting a benchmark for others to follow.
The company’s statement highlighted that this move is a testament to strong corporate principles: “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.” This isn’t an abrupt departure, but a carefully planned transition, ensuring stability and continued growth.
A New Chapter: Arnold Ekpe Takes the Helm
With one giant stepping down, another highly respected figure is stepping up. Following a thorough and rigorous selection process, the Board has appointed Mr. Arnold Ekpe, currently an Independent Non-Executive Director, as the new Chairman of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, also effective June 16, 2025.
Mr. Ekpe brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He is a seasoned banker with a distinguished career, most notably serving as the former Group CEO of Ecobank. His extensive boardroom and leadership experience spans across various sectors, making him an ideal choice to guide Dangote Sugar into its next phase.
The Board expressed its excitement for this new chapter, stating, “We welcome Mr. Ekpe to his new role and look forward to the next chapter in our Company’s journey under his leadership.” The statement concluded with a profound expression of gratitude to the outgoing chairman: “We also express our deep appreciation to Alhaji Aliko Dangote for his years of exemplary service and unwavering commitment to excellence.”
While Aliko Dangote might be stepping away from his direct leadership role at Dangote Sugar, his influence on the Nigerian and African business landscape remains immense. His recent recognition as an African business icon further cements his legacy as a titan of industry. This transition at Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc signifies not just a change in leadership, but a continuation of the company’s commitment to growth, guided by principles of strong corporate governance and a clear vision for the future.
