Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, will officially retire as Chairman of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc on June 16, 2025, after two transformative decades at the helm of the company. This major announcement was made on Wednesday by the company’s secretary, Temitope Hassan, marking the end of an era in Nigeria’s sugar industry.
Dangote, who assumed the chairmanship in 2005, is credited with positioning Dangote Sugar as the dominant player in the nation’s sugar market. Under his leadership, the company not only expanded its production capacity but also implemented critical Backward Integration Projects across Adamawa, Taraba, and Nasarawa States; moves that significantly reduced Nigeria’s dependence on sugar imports and boosted local production.
According to the official statement, Dangote’s retirement is part of a well-structured succession and governance strategy aimed at sustaining the company’s growth trajectory. His tenure, widely praised for strengthening corporate governance and driving innovation, will be succeeded by a seasoned executive with a strong track record.
Taking over the reins as Chairman is Arnold Ekpe, an Independent Non-Executive Director and former CEO of Ecobank. Ekpe is expected to bring strategic insight and leadership depth to the company, drawing from his vast experience in the banking and corporate sectors across Africa.
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“The Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Arnold Ekpe as the new Chairman of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, effective June 16, 2025,” the statement read. “We are confident that under his leadership, the company will continue its upward momentum and deliver greater value to stakeholders.”
The company also expressed heartfelt appreciation to Dangote for his unwavering commitment, visionary leadership, and for laying a solid foundation that future leaders can build on. As one of the most iconic figures in African business, Dangote’s exit signals a new chapter not just for Dangote Sugar Refinery but for Nigeria’s manufacturing landscape.
With Dangote’s legacy firmly established and a new era of leadership set to begin, industry watchers and investors will be keenly observing how the company evolves under Ekpe’s stewardship.
