Aliko Dangote Steps Down as Chairman of Dangote Cement
Africa’s wealthiest man, Aliko Dangote, has officially retired as Chairman of the Board of Dangote Cement Plc, marking the end of a transformative era for one of the continent’s largest companies.
In a statement released on Friday, company spokesperson Anthony Chiejina confirmed that Dangote’s retirement took effect on July 25, 2025.
“Mr. Dangote is stepping down from his role as Chairman and retiring from the Board to dedicate more of his time and energy to key strategic ventures — including the Dangote Refinery, Petrochemicals, Fertiliser, and Government Relations — all aimed at propelling the company’s five-year growth strategy to new heights,” the statement said.
Following his departure, the Board announced the appointment of Emmanuel Ikazoboh, an independent non-executive director, as the new Chairman of the Board. Additionally, Mariya Aliko Dangote has been appointed to the Board, while Professor Dorothy Ufot has retired.
In his acceptance speech, Ikazoboh expressed deep appreciation for the appointment.
“I am truly honored to assume the role of Chairman at Dangote Cement Plc,” he said, pledging to maintain the highest standards of leadership and accountability. “This company stands as a beacon of African enterprise — resilient, innovative, and deeply committed to excellence.”
Looking ahead, Ikazoboh outlined his vision for the company’s future.
“Our focus will remain on operational excellence, strategic expansion, sustainability, innovation, and meaningful community engagement,” he stated.
A seasoned business leader, Emmanuel Ikazoboh previously served as Group Chairman of Ecobank Transnational Inc., a leading Pan-African banking group.
His professional journey began at Akintola Williams Deloitte, where he rose through the ranks to become Managing Partner for the firm’s francophone offices in Cameroon and Côte d’Ivoire, before taking on the role of Managing Partner for Deloitte in West and Central Africa, a position he held until 2009.
In 2010, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) appointed him as Interim Administrator to oversee critical capital market reforms at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS).