Dangote steps down as Chairman, Dangote Sugar Refinery

After nearly 20 years at the helm, Aliko Dangote is stepping down as Chairman of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, officially concluding a transformative chapter in the company’s history.

The announcement, made in a statement on Wednesday by Company Secretary Temitope Hassan, confirms that Dangote’s retirement will take effect on June 16, 2025.

Dangote, who took on the chairman role in 2005, is widely recognized for steering the company into a dominant position within Nigeria’s sugar industry. Under his guidance, Dangote Sugar undertook major expansion initiatives and implemented key reforms to strengthen corporate governance.

“In accordance with sound corporate governance principles and a well-structured succession plan, Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc announces the retirement of our esteemed Board Chairman, Alhaji Aliko Dangote (GCON), effective June 16, 2025,” the statement noted.

It also pointed to Dangote’s pivotal role in launching strategic Backward Integration Projects across Adamawa, Taraba, and Nasarawa States—initiatives aimed at boosting domestic sugar production and reducing import dependence.

To lead the company into its next phase, the Board has appointed Independent Non-Executive Director Arnold Ekpe as the incoming Chairman.

“Following a thorough selection and transition process, the Board is pleased to confirm the appointment of Mr. Arnold Ekpe as Chairman of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, effective June 16, 2025,” the company stated.

Ekpe, a respected financial executive and former Group CEO of Ecobank, brings decades of leadership experience across multiple industries to his new role.

“We are confident in Mr. Ekpe’s ability to guide Dangote Sugar through its next chapter. At the same time, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Alhaji Aliko Dangote for his visionary leadership and lasting contributions to the company,” the statement concluded.