Aliko Dangote Steps Down as Chairman of Dangote Cement, Emmanuel Ikazoboh Appointed to Succeed Him.
By Our Correspondent.
Aliko Dangote, the pioneering entrepreneur and founder of Dangote Cement Plc, has announced his retirement as Director and Chairman of the Board of Directors, effective July 25, 2025.
This strategic move allows Dangote to focus on his other ventures in Refinery, Petrochemicals, Fertilizer, and Government Relations, aiming to propel the company’s five-year business plan to new heights.
In light of this transition, Dangote Cement Plc’s board has appointed Mr. Emmanuel Ikazoboh, an independent non-executive director, as the new Chairman. Alongside this, Hajiya Mariya Aliko Dangote has been appointed to the Board of Directors, while Prof. Dorothy Ufot has retired from the Board.
Aliko Dangote’s tenure has left an indelible mark on the cement industry, establishing Africa’s largest cement producer and a key exporter within Sub-Saharan Africa.
His ambition to make Nigeria and Africa self-sufficient in cement production has been instrumental in the company’s profound growth. With a current capacity of 52.0 million tons annually across the African continent—35.25 million tons of which is in Nigeria—expansion is on the horizon with new greenfield plants in Cote d’Ivoire (3.0 million tons) and Itori, Nigeria (6.0 million tons), which will enhance the total capacity to 61.0 million tons upon completion this year.
Under Dangote’s leadership, the company achieved unprecedented revenue and Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization (EBITDA), with the latest unaudited results for the six months ending June 30, 2025, reflecting a 17.7% increase in group revenue to N2,071.6 billion, marking it as the highest in the company’s history. EBITDA has surged by 41.8%, and profit after tax has seen a 174.1% increase, reinforcing the company’s status as a leader in the sector.
Dangote’s legacy encompasses not only financial success but also significant job creation and infrastructure development, reaffirming the continent’s industrial potential. His companies paid over NN402 billion in taxes in 2024, solidifying their position as the highest taxpayer in Nigeria.
Emmanuel Ikazoboh, in his acceptance speech, expressed his honor in assuming the role of Chairman, committing to uphold excellence and innovation.
He emphasized the need for sustainable growth, operational efficiency, and a focus on core company values. Plans include implementing cost-reduction strategies to enhance competitiveness and transitioning towards alternative fuels for a more sustainable future.
Ikazoboh previously served as Group Chairman of Ecobank Transnational Inc. and held various leadership roles at Deloitte, where he excelled in reshaping financial services in West and Central Africa. His extensive experience positions him well to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead for Dangote Cement Plc.
