Aliko Dangote has officially stepped down as the Chairman and Director of Dangote Cement, marking the end of an era at one of Africa’s most powerful companies. The move, which took effect on July 25, 2025, was announced in a statement by the Group Chief Branding & Communications Officer, Anthony Chiejina.
According to the statement, Dangote made the decision to retire from the board so he can channel more energy into his $20 billion refinery, petrochemical, and fertiliser projects, along with managing government relations. These ventures are key to the company’s next phase of growth, with a strong five-year roadmap already in place.
Emmanuel Ikazoboh
As he bows out, the board has welcomed Emmanuel Ikazoboh as the new Chairman. Ikazoboh is no stranger to leadership, having previously chaired Ecobank Transnational Inc. and held top roles at Deloitte in West and Central Africa. He also helped lead market reforms at the Nigerian Stock Exchange back in 2010. In his first speech as Chairman, he said it’s a privilege to lead Dangote Cement and promised to maintain excellence and integrity in the role.
Meanwhile, Hajiya Mariya Aliko Dangote has joined the board, while Prof. Dorothy Ufot has retired.
Dangote’s exit from the board is seen as the close of a massive chapter. His bold push to make Africa self-sufficient in cement production changed the industry forever. Under his leadership, the company’s revenue soared to a record-breaking N2.07 trillion for the first half of 2025, a 17.7% jump from last year.
From building local factories to expanding across Africa, Dangote didn’t just grow a company—he built a legacy. His name will always be linked to the rise of cement power in Africa.
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