Renowned industrialist and founder of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has been listed among the TIME 100 Most Influential People for 2026.
The recognition places Dangote alongside a range of global figures shaping politics, business and culture, including Donald Trump, Xi Jinping, Benjamin Netanyahu, Mark Carney and Pope Leo XIV.
Also featured on the list are leading figures in technology and business such as Sundar Pichai and Neal Mohan.
Published on April 15, the TIME100 list recognises individuals whose ideas and actions continue to shape global conversations and influence the future across multiple sectors.
Dangote, who appears in the Titans category, is the only Nigerian on this year’s list, although several other Africans were also recognised, reflecting the continent’s growing presence in global leadership, health, culture and development.
This marks his second appearance on the list, having first been honoured in 2014 for his impact on business and philanthropy.
As head of Africa’s largest indigenous industrial conglomerate, Dangote has driven investments across cement production, sugar refining, fertiliser manufacturing and agriculture, while expanding into the energy sector. His ventures have contributed to job creation and reduced dependence on imports across several African markets.
In its citation, TIME pointed to his long-term focus on building globally competitive industries using African resources, describing his investments in manufacturing and infrastructure as key to the continent’s economic transformation.
Other notable figures in the Titans category include Reid Wiseman, as well as business leaders and philanthropists from around the world.
