Alhaji Aliko Dangote, the iconic business leader and President/Chief Executive of Dangote Group, is set to retire as Chairman of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, ending a two-decade-long leadership that began in 2005. The retirement will become effective on June 16, 2025, according to an official communication from Temitope Hassan, the company secretary.
Throughout his 20 years at the forefront, Dangote has been credited with elevating Dangote Sugar to the pinnacle of Nigeria’s sugar industry. His leadership saw the company undertake major expansion projects and reinforce its corporate governance framework, ensuring sustainable growth and market dominance.
The company’s statement read, “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.”
A key highlight of Dangote’s tenure was the implementation of Backward Integration Projects in the states of Adamawa, Taraba, and Nasarawa. These initiatives were designed to increase local sugarcane cultivation and processing, thereby reducing the company’s and the country’s dependence on imported sugar.
In a move to ensure smooth leadership transition, the Board has appointed Arnold Ekpe, an Independent Non-Executive Director with a distinguished career in banking, including his role as former group CEO of Ecobank, as the new Chairman. The appointment will take effect simultaneously with Dangote’s retirement.
The statement added, “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 16th June 2025.”
The Board expressed optimism about Ekpe’s leadership and gratitude towards Dangote’s contributions: “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.”