Aliko Dangote, Africa’s foremost industrialist, is stepping down as Chairman of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, bringing to a close a 20-year era of leadership and strategic growth. His retirement will take effect on June 16, 2025, according to an official statement released by the company and signed by its secretary, Temitope Hassan.
Since assuming leadership in 2005, Dangote has been instrumental in transforming the company into a powerhouse in Nigeria’s sugar industry. His tenure was marked by strategic expansion, robust corporate governance, and the launch of critical Backward Integration Projects in Adamawa, Taraba, and Nasarawa States—a move that significantly boosted local production and curbed reliance on sugar imports.
“In alignment with sound corporate governance and structured succession planning, Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc announces the retirement of our esteemed Chairman, Alhaji Aliko Dangote (GCON), effective June 16, 2025,” the company stated.
To ensure continuity, the Board has appointed Arnold Ekpe, an Independent Non-Executive Director and former Group CEO of Ecobank, as the incoming Chairman. Ekpe brings a wealth of experience in banking and corporate leadership, positioning him well to guide the company through its next phase.
“We are confident in Mr. Ekpe’s ability to lead us into a new chapter, and we express our heartfelt gratitude to Alhaji Dangote for his visionary leadership, tireless dedication, and commitment to excellence,” the Board concluded.
