President of Dangote Industries Limited, Alhaji Aliko Dangote has said having a son to inherit his business legacy is not a priority, declaring that even if he had one, he does not believe a male heir would necessarily perform better than his three daughters.
The 69-year-old billionaire said this during an interview aired by Arise Television on Tuesday, after he was asked whether he still desired a male heir to carry on the family name.
“That is not my priority because God controls everything. You can pray for God to give you a son, but he might be the one to take down the name of the family. Sometimes, when God doesn’t give you something, don’t push,” he said.
When asked whether he could see one of them eventually leading the conglomerate, Dangote replied: “I think, yes, I can see one of them.”
“I’ve been watching all of them, so I can see definitely one of the three that can actually lead.”
Dangote’s daughters, Halima, Fatima and Mariya already occupy senior positions across the conglomerate, with their responsibilities expanded this year as the group increasingly formalises its succession structure.
Dangote said their involvement in the business was driven by their own interest rather than pressure from him.
“They are very, very interested in the business,” he said.
During the interview, Dangote also said an agreement had been signed to ensure that one-third of his wealth would go to the Dangote Foundation after his death.
“It’s a paper that we’ve signed an agreement that in case anything happens, because I won’t live forever, that one-third belongs to Dangote Foundation, and the foundation should pass that money to people,” he said.
According to Forbes, Dangote has an estimated net worth of $51.3bn.
While speaking about the lessons he would offer young people seeking to succeed, the businessman advised them to work hard, remain consistent and focused, and avoid rushing the process.
“Work hard, be consistent, focused and know what you want to do. You can’t be a jack of all trades; concentrate, you will get there, and don’t be too much in a hurry,” he said.
