Africa’s wealthiest businessman, Aliko Dangote, has officially stepped aside from his long-standing role as Chairman of Dangote Cement Plc’s Board of Directors.
The company’s spokesperson, Anthony Chiejina, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Friday, noting that the resignation became effective on July 25, 2025.
“He is relinquishing his position as chairman and retiring from the board so as to focus more attention on the Refinery, Petrochemicals, Fertiliser and Government Relations, in order to drive the company’s five-year business trajectory to a superlative height,” the statement read.
Subsequently, the Board of the company announced the appointment of Emmanuel Ikazoboh, an independent non-executive director, as the new Chairman, Board of Directors.
In the same vein, Mariya Aliko Dangote was also appointed to the Board of Directors of the Company while Prof. Dorothy Ufot retired from the Board.
Ikazoboh, in his acceptance speech, said he is truly honored to accept the role of Chairman of Dangote Cement Plc while pledging to uphold the highest standards of leadership and dedication in this role.
He described the company as a beacon of African enterprise, which has consistently demonstrated resilience, innovation, and a commitment to excellence.
Giving an insight into what his tenure holds for the company, he said, “My vision for Dangote Cement Plc is built upon a foundation of sustainable growth, operational efficiency, and unwavering commitment to our core values.
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“We will continue to focus on the following key priorities, Operational Excellence, Strategic Expansion, Sustainability, Innovation and Community Engagement.”
Emmanuel Ikazoboh, a seasoned figure in African finance, once held the helm as Group Chairman of Ecobank Transnational Inc., a key player in the continent’s banking sector.
His career began at Akintola Williams Deloitte, where he quickly rose through the ranks. He initially led the firm’s operations in Francophone Africa—specifically Cameroon and Côte d’Ivoire—before assuming broader leadership as Managing Partner for Deloitte’s West and Central Africa practice, a role he held until 2009.
In 2010, Nigeria’s Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) appointed him Interim Administrator, entrusting him with the urgent task of reforming the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS) at a critical juncture in the country’s capital market evolution.