Africa's richest man appoints daughters to lead key positions in family business

Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, is putting family front and center in the Dangote Group’s leadership, appointing his three daughters to top positions, signaling a new era of family-led succession and next-generation power moves.

Dangote, who is currently worth $31.9 billion according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, has seen his fortune jump by $1.89 billion this year alone, including a daily gain of $50.8 million.

His crown jewel, the Dangote Oil Refinery, which is Africa’s largest, started operations in early 2024, fueling both his wealth and the group’s expansion ambitions.

Leading the charge is Halima Aliko Dangote, appointed Group Executive Director, Dangote Family Office & International Offices (Dubai & London). She will oversee the family office in Dubai, managing governance, operations, policies, and organisational structure, while keeping a close eye on Dubai and London offices to ensure smooth operations and alignment with group standards.

“Please join me in congratulating Halima as she steps confidently into this expanded role in service of our Group and the continent,” the company said in an unsigned note.

What Dangote said about a percentage of his wealth in the event of his death

Next in line is Fatima Aliko Dangote, named Group Executive Director, Commercial Operations – Oil & Gas. She will lead the energy businesses, including the Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals, fertilizer operations, and WAEP Upstream, while managing Corporate Communications, Administration, and Group Procurement.

Mariya Aliko Dangote completes the trio as Group Executive Director, Commercial Operations – Cement & Foods. She will drive commercial strategy, market growth, and operational excellence across cement and food operations.



“These appointments reflect our commitment to succession, sustainability, and stewardship, ensuring the next generation is empowered to carry forward the legacy,” the company said.

Meanwhile, the Dangote Group is pushing forward with a $400-million construction equipment deal with China’s XCMG Construction Machinery Co., Ltd. The deal will supercharge the Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals expansion from 650,000 to 1.4 million barrels per day, making it the largest refinery in the world.

“The additional equipment we are acquiring under this partnership will significantly enhance execution across our projects. With this investment, we are positioning ourselves to become the number one construction company in the world,” the statement said.

With these moves, the Dangote Group is clearly stepping on the global growth accelerator as it races toward its $100 billion Vision 2030 goal.

With additional files from AriseNews and Business Insider Africa

MA

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