Aliko Dangote has once again cemented his place as Africa’s wealthiest man, topping Forbes’ Real-Time Billionaires List with a net worth of $24.4 billion and ranking 88th globally.
The latest ranking, released today, underscores Dangote’s unmatched dominance in Africa’s wealth hierarchy, where he stands far ahead of his Nigerian peers. Abdulsamad Rabiu follows at $7.2 billion (#516), Mike Adenuga at $6.3 billion (#592), and Femi Otedola at $1.5 billion (#2424).
Dangote’s wealth is more than triple Rabiu’s, nearly four times Adenuga’s, and over 16 times Otedola’s, a testament to his commanding presence on the continent’s billionaire stage.
Since first appearing on Forbes’ list in 2008, Dangote has remained a fixture, reclaiming his spot in 2011 and holding the title of Africa’s richest man for 14 consecutive years. His fortune, largely driven by cement, sugar, and the landmark petroleum refinery launched in 2023, has reinforced his role as a symbol of Nigeria’s industrial strength.
While Dangote leads, other Nigerian billionaires continue to secure their places. Rabiu, with strongholds in cement and sugar, and Adenuga, with investments in telecommunications and oil, remain prominent players. Otedola, whose portfolio spans energy and utilities, made a return to the list after years away, reflecting renewed momentum in his business empire.