Aliko Dangote
Nigerian businessman and Africa's wealthiest individual.
Anasskoko · CC BY-SA 4.0
Aliko Dangote (born 10 April 1957) is a Nigerian businessman. He is known as the wealthiest individual in Africa and the wealthiest black individual in the world. As of August 13, his net worth was estimated at over US$35.1 billion per Bloomberg, making him the 66th wealthiest individual in the world.
- born
- 10 April 1957, Kano, Kano State, British Nigeria
- field
- Business
- nationality
- Nigerian
- known_for
- Founder of Dangote Group and Dangote Refinery; wealthiest individual in Africa
Lore & Background
Dangote launched his first business venture with a $3,000 loan from his uncle, trading in food products. In 1977, he founded the Dangote Group, a small company that imported sugar, salt, and food products.
Reader's Guide
His business empire spans cement, sugar, salt, flour, and oil, with operations across multiple African countries including Benin, Ghana, Kenya, and South Africa. Dangote's legacy is tied to his role as the wealthiest black individual globally and a key figure in African industrialization.
Did You Know?
- Aliko Dangote was born on 10 April 1957 in Kano, British Nigeria.
- His maternal great-grandfather, Alhassan Abdullahi Dantata, was the richest person in West Africa until his death in 1955.
- He launched his first business venture with a $3,000 loan from his uncle.
- He was awarded the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger in 2011.
- He was listed in Time magazine's 100 most influential people in 2014.
Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Aliko Dangote?
Aliko Dangote is a Nigerian business magnate best recognized as the founder of the Dangote Group and the Dangote Refinery. He holds the title of Africa's wealthiest individual and the richest black person in the world.
What is Aliko Dangote known for?
He built one of the largest industrial empires on the African continent, spanning cement, sugar, and oil refining through the Dangote Group. His flagship project, the Dangote Refinery, cemented his status as a dominant force in African industry.
How much is Aliko Dangote worth?
As of August 13, Bloomberg estimates his net worth at over US$35.1 billion, placing him at 66th among the world's wealthiest individuals. He is simultaneously ranked as the richest person in Africa and the wealthiest black individual globally.
Did Aliko Dangote hold any government role?
Yes. In 2011, President Goodluck Jonathan appointed him to Nigeria's economic management team, giving him a direct advisory role in national economic policy.
Where and when was Aliko Dangote born?
He was born on 10 April 1957 in Kano, Kano State, in what was then British Nigeria. He has maintained Nigerian nationality throughout his career.
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