Africa’s richest man and founder of Dangote Cement Plc, Aliko Dangote, has officially stepped down as Chairman and Director of the board of Dangote Cement, with effect from July 25, 2025.
The announcement was made in a statement by the Group Chief, Branding & Communications Officer, Anthony Chiejina, who noted that Dangote’s decision stems from a renewed focus on driving growth across other sectors of the Dangote Group, particularly refinery, petrochemicals, fertiliser, and government relations.
“His retirement is aimed at dedicating more time to these critical sectors to propel the company’s five-year business trajectory to a superlative height,” the statement read.
In line with the board’s succession plan, Mr. Emmanuel Ikazoboh, an independent non-executive director, has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Board of Directors. Additionally, Hajiya Mariya Aliko Dangote has been appointed to the board, while Prof. Dorothy Ufot has retired from her position.
Emmanuel Ikazoboh Accepts Chairmanship
In his acceptance speech, Emmanuel Ikazoboh expressed gratitude and pledged unwavering commitment to upholding the company’s legacy and advancing its global status.
“I am truly honoured to accept the role of Chairman of Dangote Cement Plc,” he stated. “The company has consistently demonstrated resilience, innovation, and commitment to excellence, becoming a beacon of African enterprise.”
Ikazoboh outlined his vision for the future of the company, which will centre on Operational excellence, Strategic expansion, Sustainability, Innovation, Community engagement.
He emphasized plans to reduce operational costs by implementing cost-reduction strategies, adopting alternative fuels and cleaner technologies, and reducing fossil fuel dependency. He also pledged continuous investment in staff training and development, promising to foster a performance-driven culture across the company.
A Seasoned Corporate Leader
Mr. Ikazoboh brings a wealth of experience to the role. He previously served as Group Chairman of Ecobank Transnational Inc., and began his career at Akintola Williams Deloitte. His professional path has taken him through West and Central Africa, where he served as Managing Partner in both Cameroon and Côte d’Ivoire, and later became Managing Partner of Deloitte West and Central Africa.
In 2010, he was appointed by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as Interim Administrator to lead reforms at the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) and Central Securities Clearing System Plc (CSCS).
His leadership is expected to usher in a new phase for Dangote Cement Plc, already recognized as Africa’s leading cement producer, with a strong presence across multiple African countries and a reputation for innovation and impact.
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