Africa’s richest industrialist, Aliko Dangote, has been named among the world’s most influential figures in the 2026 TIME100 list released by Time Magazine.
The annual list, published on April 15, features leading personalities shaping global politics, business, technology and culture.
Dangote, founder of Dangote Group, is the only Nigerian on the 2026 list and appears in the “Titans” category.
Other global figures named include Donald Trump, Xi Jinping, Benjamin Netanyahu, Mark Carney, and Pope Leo XIV.
Top technology leaders such as Sundar Pichai and Neal Mohan were also recognised.
This marks Dangote’s second appearance on the prestigious list, following his first inclusion in 2014 for his impact on business and philanthropy.
TIME highlighted his role in driving industrial growth across Africa through investments in cement, agriculture, food processing, infrastructure and energy.
The publication noted his long-standing vision of building globally competitive industries using local resources, alongside his recent large-scale investments in manufacturing and energy.
Dangote’s influence extends beyond business through the Aliko Dangote Foundation, which supports projects in healthcare, education, nutrition and economic empowerment across Africa.
The 2026 TIME100 list also features personalities from entertainment and culture, including Ranbir Kapoor, Dakota Johnson and Kate Hudson.
The recognition further reflects growing global attention on African enterprise and leadership, with Dangote widely seen as a key figure shaping the continent’s economic future.
Meanwhile, Dangote Industries has unveiled its “Vision 2030” plan aimed at expanding its global reach and scaling operations. The strategy focuses on strengthening core sectors such as cement, fertiliser and energy, while exploring new investments in steel, power and port infrastructure.
Under the roadmap, the group plans to grow from a regional powerhouse into a global industrial force, with a target of reaching $100 billion in revenue by 2030.
