Dangote: Call Me Wealthiest Man, Not Richest, So Others Can Create Wealth
President of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, has asked Nigerians to stop referring to him as the richest man in Africa, saying he would rather be known as the “wealthiest man” who creates wealth for others.
Dangote made the statement on Monday while sounding the gong at the Nigerian Exchange in Lagos to formally launch the Initial Public Offering of Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals. He said the IPO presented an opportunity for investors to participate in what he described as a transformational chapter for Nigeria and Africa’s economies.
“I don’t want anybody again to call me the richest man in Africa. I want to be called the wealthiest man in Africa so that I can create wealth for others,” Dangote said. He also urged Nigerians to deepen the capital market, broaden ownership of wealth and work collectively towards building a stronger Nigerian and African economy.
The IPO, which opened on Monday, September 14, 2026, offers 4.1 billion new ordinary shares of Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals at N525 per share. The minimum subscription is 10 shares valued at N5,250, while the offer is scheduled to close on October 13, 2026, subject to the terms of the prospectus.
The ceremony marked the first time a refinery has been offered on the Nigerian stock market in the 66-year history of the Nigerian Exchange.
Dangote also acknowledged the personal sacrifices involved in building his business empire, thanking his three daughters, Mariya, Halima and Fatima, for their understanding and support over the years