Aliko Dangote Named African Energy Person of the Year 2026
In a statement issued on Monday, the chamber said the award celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to energy security, infrastructure development, and economic transformation across the continent.
Dangote was honoured for his multi-billion-dollar investments across key sectors, particularly his efforts to reduce Africa’s dependence on imported refined petroleum products and strengthen local production capacity.
Central to the recognition is the Dangote Refinery, which the chamber described as a landmark project in Africa’s industrial history. With a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, the refinery is considered one of the largest in the world and has already begun reshaping regional fuel supply dynamics.
According to the statement, the refinery has improved Nigeria’s energy security, reduced pressure on foreign exchange demand for fuel imports, and enhanced the country’s position in global energy markets. It also noted that refined products from the facility are increasingly being supplied to markets across Africa and beyond.
Beyond oil refining, Dangote’s wider industrial footprint through the Dangote Group was also highlighted, including investments in cement, fertilizer, sugar, and logistics infrastructure aimed at boosting intra-African trade and manufacturing capacity.
The chamber also acknowledged the humanitarian work of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, which supports health, education, nutrition, and poverty alleviation programmes across Africa, including major contributions to polio eradication and emergency relief efforts.
Previous recipients of the African Energy Person of the Year award include former OPEC Secretary-General Mohammad Sanusi Barkindo and Angolan President João Lourenço, underscoring the award’s focus on leadership in advancing Africa’s energy future.
