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LAGOS – Aliko Dangote has received global recognition for his philanthropy. He is Chairman of the Aliko Dangote Foundation. He is also President of Dangote Industries Limited. Dangote is now on the first 2025 TIME100 Philanthropy list. He is the only Nigerian among 100 global figures noted for shaping the future of giving. The Time philanthropy listing marks his contributions.
TIME Magazine published the list. It includes figures such as Michael Bloomberg, Oprah Winfrey, and Prince William. They are recognized across categories: Titans, Leaders, Trailblazers, and Innovators. “Investing in nutrition, health, education, and economic empowerment is our contribution to setting Africans up for success,” Dangote stated. This statement shows his Foundation’s work on Africa’s challenges.
Impact on Health and Education
Dangote’s philanthropy includes large investments in health and education. The Aliko Dangote Foundation spends an average of $35 million each year across Africa. Key projects include a $100 million program to fight child malnutrition. A partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation contributed to Nigeria’s eradication of polio. This Dangote global recognition is linked to such results.
In education, his foundation made a $10 million endowment to the Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology. It also donated a N1.2 billion hostel to Ahmadu Bello University. The Nigerian government described this as the largest private donation to the nation’s higher education at the time. “We need to create the next generation of African leaders,” Dangote said. He views education as important for national progress. The TIME100 Philanthropy Nigeria inclusion notes these efforts.
A Legacy of Giving and Vision for Africa
The Aliko Dangote Foundation also supports community-level change. The “Mu Shuka Iri” (Let’s Plant a Seed) program trains local women as community health educators. The foundation provides scholarships and vocational training. It supports future leaders through the World Economic Forum’s Young Global Leaders program.
Dangote spoke about his philanthropic origins. “My mother instilled in me the ethos of giving back, which inspired my philanthropy 30 years ago. I trust my three daughters will continue this legacy,” he said. He added, “I want to be known not just as Africa’s richest person but also as its biggest philanthropist.” This Time philanthropy award reflects this stated goal.
By Abdullah Korede
