Africa’s richest industrialist, Aliko Dangote, has been named among the world’s most influential people in the 2026 TIME100 list.
The annual list, released by TIME Magazine on April 15, highlights global figures shaping politics, business, technology, and culture.
This year’s selection includes major world leaders such as United States President Donald Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Pope Leo XIV.
Tech industry leaders including Sundar Pichai and Neal Mohan also made the list.
Dangote, founder of the Dangote Group, is the only Nigerian featured in the 2026 edition.
He appears in the “Titans” category and is making his second appearance on the TIME100 list, having first been recognised in 2014.
According to TIME, Dangote was selected for his continued push to drive industrial growth across Africa, with investments spanning cement, agriculture, food processing, infrastructure, and energy.
The magazine also pointed to his strategy of building large-scale industries using locally sourced materials, alongside his recent expansion plans in manufacturing and power.
Beyond business, Dangote was also recognised for his philanthropic work through the Aliko Dangote Foundation, which funds initiatives in healthcare, education, and economic empowerment across the continent.
His company, Dangote Industries Limited, recently unveiled an ambitious long-term expansion strategy titled “Vision 2030,” aimed at scaling operations and strengthening its presence globally.
The plan focuses on existing sectors such as cement, fertiliser, and energy, while also exploring new investments in steel, power, and port infrastructure.
Other names on this year’s TIME100 list include actors Ranbir Kapoor, Dakota Johnson, and Kate Hudson, reflecting a wide mix of influence across industries and regions.
