Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim

Business leaders across northern Nigeria have praised Africa’s leading industrialist, Aliko Dangote, following his inclusion as the only Nigerian on Time Magazine’s 2026 list of the world’s 100 most influential people.

KANO FOCUS reports that the President of the Kaduna Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, Alhaji Farouk Suleiman, described the recognition as a source of pride for Nigeria and the African continent.

“This distinction is not only a personal milestone for Mr. Dangote but also a moment of pride for Nigeria and Africa,” he said, adding that the businessman’s journey reflects a strong commitment to industrialisation, economic transformation, and self-reliance.

Suleiman noted that Dangote’s influence is rooted in his role in developing large-scale industries that have reduced Nigeria’s reliance on imports while creating thousands of jobs. He also described him as a pillar of KADCCIMA, highlighting his company’s continued sponsorship of trade fairs that sustain the chamber’s annual events.

Also speaking, a leader of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria in Kano/Jigawa, Nura Madugu, said Dangote’s investments across sectors such as cement, petrochemicals, and agriculture have transformed critical areas of the economy and strengthened Nigeria’s standing in regional and global markets.

“His ability to execute ambitious projects, particularly in challenging environments, demonstrates visionary leadership and an unwavering belief in Africa’s potential,” Madugu said.

He added that Dangote’s philanthropic efforts further justify the global recognition, noting his sustained interventions in health, education, and humanitarian support across the continent.

“For us at MAN, his recognition serves as an inspiration to the private sector, reinforcing the importance of enterprise, resilience, and nation-building,” he added.

In a similar vein, the Director-General of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Agabaidu Jideani, described the honour as a testament to Dangote’s entrepreneurial achievements and the rising global influence of African business leaders.

“As a distinguished member of the chamber, Dangote exemplifies the transformative power of private enterprise in driving economic growth, industrialisation, and sustainable development,” he said.

Jideani further noted that through the Dangote Group, the businessman has reshaped key sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, and infrastructure, while reducing import dependence and boosting local production capacity.

He also highlighted Dangote’s contributions through the Aliko Dangote Foundation, particularly in health and human development initiatives such as polio eradication efforts.

“The ACCI is proud to be associated with Dangote and remains committed to supporting policies that enable businesses to thrive and contribute meaningfully to development,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Nigeria Association of Small-Scale Industrialists, Nasarawa State chapter, Nidan Sambo Manasseh, said Dangote’s selection was well deserved, citing his transformative role in advancing industrialisation.

He said Dangote’s investments in manufacturing, cement production, and refining have reduced import dependency while promoting local capacity development.

“His business model demonstrates that indigenous enterprises can compete globally, offering a powerful example to small and medium-scale industrialists,” Manasseh said.

He added that Dangote’s commitment to philanthropy and social impact continues to uplift communities and promote inclusive growth.

The NASSI chairman urged Nigerian industrialists, particularly at the grassroots level, to draw inspiration from Dangote’s legacy of enterprise, innovation, and national development.