Dangote retires from his sugar refinery June 16
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Aliko Dangote has announced retirement from one of the entities in his conglomerate, the eponymous sugar refinery, ending his 20-year leadership of the firm to concentrate on bigger fishes in his ocean, including the $20 billion refinery in Lagos.
Dangote, 68, explained earlier this year that he may even retire soon from his entire quarry, aware he is nearing a stage in life when his body may no longer support his running around to protect a war chest that makes him the richest man in Africa.
Halima his eldest daughter and eldest child, aged mid-40s, who holds key roles in the Dangote Group – serving as Executive Director for Commercial Operations and sitting on several corporate boards – is already publicly assuming a higher profile in the Group and speculated to take over as CEO when her father finally retires.
A statement issued by Dangote Refinery Company Secretary Temitope Hassan said the retirement of the Board Chairman will take effect from June 16.
Since assuming leadership in 2005, Dangote has been recognised as a key figure in transforming Dangote Sugar into a market leader in Nigeria’s sugar industry, overseeing significant expansion and strengthening corporate governance.
“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 said.
It noted that during his tenure, the company launched major backward integration projects in Adamawa, Taraba, and Nasarawa to boost local sugar production and reduce dependence on imports.
Arnold Ekpe, Independent Non-Executive Director, has been appointed new Chairman, according to the statement.
“Following a rigorous selection and transition process, the Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Arnold Ekpe, Independent Non-Executive Director, as the new Chairman of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, effective 16th June 2025.
“Ekpe is a seasoned banker and former group CEO of Ecobank, with extensive boardroom and leadership experience across sectors.
“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.”
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