After 20 years, Dangote quits as Dangote Sugar Chairman, Ekpe steps in

Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, is stepping down as Chairman of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc after two decades of leadership that reshaped the company into a major player in Nigeria’s sugar industry.

The announcement was made on Wednesday in a corporate disclosure signed by the company’s secretary, Temitope Hassan. Dangote’s retirement takes effect from June 16, 2025.

“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, citing the company’s commitment to corporate governance and succession planning.

Dangote, who took the helm in 2005, spearheaded several strategic initiatives that expanded the company’s market footprint. Under his leadership, Dangote Sugar launched key Backward Integration Projects across Adamawa, Taraba, and Nasarawa states, aimed at boosting local sugar production and reducing reliance on imports.

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To ensure a smooth transition, the Board has appointed Independent Non-Executive Director Arnold Ekpe as the new Chairman, effective the same day as Dangote’s exit.

Ekpe, a respected figure in the financial industry and former Group CEO of Ecobank, brings decades of executive and boardroom experience to the role.

“We welcome Mr. Ekpe to his new role and look forward to the next chapter in our Company’s journey under his leadership,” the company said, adding, “We also express our deep appreciation to Alhaji Aliko Dangote for his years of exemplary service and unwavering commitment.”

Dangote’s departure signals a new era for the company, which remains one of Nigeria’s leading sugar producers and a key entity in the Dangote Group portfolio.