Africa’s richest man and founder of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has formally stepped down as the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Dangote Cement Plc.

The announcement was made in an official statement issued on Friday by the company’s spokesperson, Anthony Chiejina, who disclosed that the retirement took effect from July 25, 2025.

According to the statement, Dangote’s decision to resign from the board is aimed at allowing him to focus more on other critical sectors of the Group’s operations particularly the Dangote Refinery, Petrochemicals, Fertiliser business, and Government Relations in line with the company’s five-year strategic growth plan.

In the wake of his exit, the Board of Directors has announced the appointment of Emmanuel Ikazoboh, an independent non-executive director, as the new Chairman of the company. The board also approved the appointment of Mariya Aliko Dangote as a director, while Professor Dorothy Ufot has retired from the board.

In his acceptance remarks, Ikazoboh expressed appreciation for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to lead with integrity and dedication.

“I am truly honoured to accept the role of Chairman of Dangote Cement Plc,” he said. “My vision for the company is anchored on sustainable growth, operational efficiency, and a deep commitment to our core values. We will focus on key priorities including operational excellence, strategic expansion, sustainability, innovation, and community engagement.”

Ikazoboh is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in corporate governance and finance. He previously served as Group Chairman of Ecobank Transnational Inc. and started his career with Akintola Williams Deloitte. He rose to become Managing Partner for the firm’s francophone offices in Cameroon and Côte d’Ivoire, before heading Deloitte’s operations in West and Central Africa until 2009.

In 2010, he was appointed by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as Interim Administrator of the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE) and the Central Securities Clearing System (CSCS), where he led critical capital market reforms.

Dangote’s retirement from Dangote Cement marks a significant shift in the leadership of one of Africa’s most prominent industrial firms, although he remains deeply involved in other key ventures within the Dangote Group.