The board of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc has appointed its Independent Non-Executive Director, Mr Arnold Ekpe, as the new chairman following the retirement of Mr Aliko Dangote as the head of the company after 20 years.
A statement from the organisation on Thursday disclosed that the retirement of the founder of the company takes effect from Monday, June 16, 2025.
The notice signed by the company’s secretary, Ms Temitope Hassan, revealed that Mr Dangote, who is the richest man in Africa, has been at the helm of his sugar business leadership since 2005.
The businessman is credited with steering Dangote Sugar into a market leader in Nigeria’s sugar industry, overseeing major expansion projects and strengthening corporate governance.
“In line with the principles of good corporate governance and succession planning, Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc hereby announces the retirement of our esteemed Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Company, Alhaji Aliko Dangote (GCON), effective June 16, 2025,” the statement read.
Mr Dangote owns stakes in businesses, including food, cement, energy, and plastics among others.
The statement noted that under his leadership, the firm implemented key Backward Integration Projects in Adamawa, Taraba, and Nasarawa States to improve local sugar production and reduce import dependence.
“Following a rigorous selection and transition process, the Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr Arnold Ekpe, Independent Non-Executive Director as the new Chairman of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc. effective 16th June 2025,” the statement added.
Mr Ekpe is a seasoned banker and former group CEO of Ecobank, with extensive boardroom and leadership experience across sectors.
“We welcome Mr Ekpe to his new role and look forward to the next chapter in our Company’s journey under his leadership. We also express our deep appreciation to Aliko Dangote for his years of exemplary service and unwavering commitment to excellence,” the statement concluded.