Why I stepped down after 20 years as chairman of Dangote Sugar
After two decades at the helm, Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, is stepping down as Chairman of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc.
Giving reason for the retirement, he said it was for principles of good corporate governance and succession planning.
As part of the leadership transition, the Board of Dangote Sugar has appointed Mr. Arnold Ekpe, an Independent Non-Executive Director, as the new Chairman. Ekpe’s appointment also takes effect from June 16, 2025.
His retirement will take effect from June 16, 2025, according to an official statement released on Wednesday by the company secretary, Temitope Hassan.
Dangote, who assumed leadership of the sugar company in 2005, is widely credited for transforming it into a major player in Nigeria’s sugar industry. Under his watch, Dangote Sugar Refinery grew in size and scope, executing large-scale expansion projects and embracing better corporate governance standards.
“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 company’s statement read.
The company highlighted several achievements under Dangote’s leadership, particularly the execution of Backward Integration Projects in Adamawa, Taraba, and Nasarawa States. These projects are aimed at boosting local sugar production, creating jobs, and reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imported sugar.
Succession planning is often overlooked in many African corporations, so it’s refreshing to see such a deliberate and principled transition at this level. Curious to see what direction Dangote Sugar takes under Mr. Ekpe’s leadership.