Aliko Dangote has stepped down as Chairman of the Board of Dangote Sugar Refinery Plc, marking the end of his 20-year tenure leading the company. According to a statement released on Wednesday by the company’s secretary, Temitope Hassan, his retirement will take effect on June 16, 2025. Dangote, who assumed leadership in 2005, is widely acknowledged for transforming Dangote Sugar into a dominant force in Nigeria’s sugar sector, driving key expansion initiatives and enhancing 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. The statement noted that under his leadership, the company implemented key Backward Integration Projects in Adamawa, Taraba and Nasarawa States to improve local sugar production and reduce import dependence. The Board has appointed Independent Non-Executive Director, Arnold Ekpe, as the new chairman. “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. 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 Alhaji Aliko Dangote for his years of exemplary service and unwavering commitment to excellence,” the statement concluded.