April 10, (THEWILL) — President Bola Tinubu has joined millions of Nigerians and global business leaders in celebrating Africa’s foremost industrialist, Aliko Dangote, on the occasion of his 69th birthday, praising his outstanding contributions to Nigeria and Africa’s economic transformation.
Dangote, Chairman of the Dangote Group, marks his 69th birthday on Friday, April 10, amid continued global recognition of his business empire and industrial footprint across the continent.
According to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index and Forbes, he remains the world’s richest Black man and is ranked among the top 100 wealthiest individuals globally, with an estimated net worth of about $32.5 billion as of 2026.
In a statement issued by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Dangote as a visionary entrepreneur whose investments have redefined industrial development in Nigeria and strengthened Africa’s position in global manufacturing and production value chains.
The President particularly commended Dangote’s leadership in the establishment and expansion of the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical Company, describing it as a landmark project that has significantly boosted Nigeria’s capacity in petroleum refining, petrochemicals, and energy security.
He noted that Dangote’s industrial ventures in cement manufacturing, sugar production, fertiliser, and logistics have contributed immensely to job creation, infrastructure development, and foreign exchange stability in Nigeria and across Africa.
“Aliko’s entrepreneurial vision, resilience, innovation, and commitment to excellence have transformed industries and positioned Nigeria as a hub for large-scale petrochemical and cement production,” the President stated.
Tinubu further highlighted that Dangote’s business empire stands as a model of African enterprise success, driven by resilience and long-term investment in strategic sectors critical to economic diversification.
“I salute Aliko for his conglomerate’s role in job creation, infrastructure development, and unwavering belief in the Nigerian economy and its potential.
“Dangote remains a shining example of African enterprise, whose achievements continue to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs across the continent,” he added.
Beyond his industrial achievements, the President also lauded Dangote’s philanthropic impact through the Dangote Foundation, which has played a critical role in supporting healthcare delivery, education initiatives, nutrition programmes, and poverty alleviation efforts across Nigeria and Africa.
According to Tinubu, the foundation’s interventions have continued to provide life-changing support to vulnerable communities, reinforcing Dangote’s legacy not only as a business leader but also as a humanitarian.
“I also applaud Aliko’s philanthropic efforts, particularly through the Dangote Foundation, which have significantly impacted lives in health, education, and poverty alleviation,” the statement read.
Tinubu prayed for continued strength, wisdom, and prosperity for the business magnate, expressing optimism that Dangote will achieve even greater milestones in his service to Nigeria, Africa, and humanity.
“As Aliko marks another year, I pray for his continued good health, wisdom, and greater accomplishments in service to Nigeria, Africa, and humanity,” he said.
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