RismadarVoice Reporters, May 18, 2026
President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has been named the African Energy Person of the Year 2026 by the African Energy Chamber in recognition of his contributions to energy security, industrial development and infrastructure growth across the continent.
The announcement was made by the chamber in a statement on Monday, describing Dangote as a transformative figure whose investments have strengthened Africa’s energy landscape and reduced dependence on imports.
The African Energy Person of the Year award recognises individuals who have significantly influenced the continent’s energy sector through projects that support economic growth, infrastructure expansion, local content development and long-term energy sustainability.
Previous recipients of the award include former United States Assistant Secretary of State for Energy Resources Frank Fannon, former OPEC Secretary-General Mohammad Sanusi Barkindo, former Namibian President Hage Geingob, Woodside Energy CEO Meg O’Neill, Afreximbank President Benedict Oramah and Angolan President João Lourenço.
According to the African Energy Chamber, Dangote earned the recognition due to his extensive investments aimed at improving energy security and supporting African-led industrial solutions.
“This is a fitting honour for the Nigerian businessman and industrialist who has invested billions in Africa to strengthen energy security, build infrastructure, create jobs, reduce import dependence and promote regional development,” the statement noted.
Dangote built one of Africa’s largest industrial conglomerates through investments spanning cement, sugar, salt, flour and fertiliser production, creating an extensive network designed to strengthen domestic supply chains and boost industrial capacity.
His most prominent energy investment in recent years remains the Dangote Refinery located in Lekki, Lagos, one of the world’s largest single-train refineries with an estimated refining capacity of 650,000 barrels per day.
The project, which also houses petrochemical and fertiliser facilities, has been widely viewed as a major step toward reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products and improving energy self-sufficiency.
Industry observers have described the refinery as a significant development for Nigeria’s economy, particularly in addressing foreign exchange pressures and strengthening fuel supply capacity.
Beyond business investments, Dangote has also maintained extensive philanthropic initiatives through the Aliko Dangote Foundation, which supports programmes in healthcare, education, nutrition, poverty reduction and emergency relief efforts across Africa.
The African Energy Chamber noted that Dangote’s influence extends beyond industrialisation, describing him as a business leader whose investments continue to shape economic growth and long-term development across the continent.
