Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man and one of Nigeria’s most influential business figures, has officially stepped down as Chairman of the Board of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, marking the end of his two-decade-long leadership of the company.
His retirement takes effect from June 16, 2025, according to an official statement released on Wednesday by the company’s secretary, Temitope Hassan.
Dangote, who assumed the role in 2005, has been widely praised for transforming Dangote Sugar into Nigeria’s market leader in the sugar refining industry.
Under his stewardship, the company undertook major expansion projects and implemented stronger corporate governance practices.
The company statement read in part:
“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.”
Dangote’s leadership also saw the successful launch of key Backward Integration Projects across Adamawa, Taraba, and Nasarawa States—initiatives aimed at boosting local sugar production and reducing Nigeria’s reliance on imported sugar.
As part of the company’s leadership transition, Arnold Ekpe, an Independent Non-Executive Director, has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Board.
The statement further said:
“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 June 16, 2025.”
Ekpe is an accomplished banker and former Group CEO of Ecobank, with decades of leadership experience in financial services and corporate governance across Africa.
The board expressed gratitude to Dangote, stating:
“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.”
