Aliko Dangote prepares three daughters to inherit $58 billion business empire

Africa's wealthiest individual, Aliko Dangote, is strategically placing his three daughters, Mariya, Halima, and Fatima, to take on more prominent roles within his business empire as he prepares for a generational shift at the conglomerate, which could see his wealth reach $58 billion. The 69-year-old industrialist has promoted the three sisters to senior leadership positions, signifying a transition of power within the company, which operates in cement, sugar, fertiliser and petroleum refining.

Bloomberg reported on Thursday, October 22, that the succession arrangements are in place as Dangote prepares to list a minority stake in his $20 billion petroleum refinery, which could raise up to $1.6 billion. The proposed listing may increase his wealth by nearly two-thirds to $58 billion, as per Bloomberg Billionaires Index predictions.

The conglomerate generates around $20 billion in annual sales, with Dangote expected to retain over 80% of the refinery's shares following the public offering. The Dangote sisters, who have been working within the family businesses for over a decade, were promoted to senior roles in February 2026 as part of efforts to bolster the group's leadership.

Despite their increased responsibilities, the sisters have stated that no decision has been made on who will eventually succeed their father as chief executive. Mariya further clarified that the billionaire has no immediate plans to give up control of the conglomerate. The succession plan unfolds as the Dangote Group extends its reach in African and international capital markets, with several major transactions expected to alter the ownership structure of its businesses.

Recently, Nairametrics reported that the refinery's IPO campaign was expanded to Egypt, Ethiopia, and Botswana. The offer, initially set to close on October 13, was extended to October 27, 2026.