Renowned African industrialist and philanthropist Aliko Dangote has been named among the TIME 100 Most Influential People, reaffirming his status as one of the world’s most impactful business leaders.

Dangote joins a distinguished lineup of global figures, including political leaders such as Donald Trump, Xi Jinping, Benjamin Netanyahu, and Mark Carney, as well as religious leader Pope Leo XIV.

Also featured are top figures in business and technology, including Sundar Pichai and Neal Mohan.

The annual TIME100 list, released on April 15, 2026, recognises individuals whose leadership and ideas are shaping the future across politics, business, culture, and society. Dangote’s inclusion places him among a diverse group of global changemakers.

This marks his second appearance on the prestigious list, following his first recognition in 2014, underscoring the consistency and scale of his global influence.

Dangote, the only Nigerian on the 2026 list, was featured in the “Titans” category alongside notable figures such as Reid Wiseman, Michael Dell, Susan Dell, and Ralph Lauren.

In the “Pioneers” category, honourees include Kiran Musunuru and Rebecca Ahrens-Nicklas for breakthroughs in genetic therapy, as well as Aaron Williams for advancements in heart transplant readiness.

The list also recognises figures in entertainment and culture such as Ranbir Kapoor, Dakota Johnson, and Kate Hudson.

As founder and president of the Dangote Group, Dangote has driven industrialisation across Africa through major investments in cement, agriculture, food processing, infrastructure, and energy—significantly reducing reliance on imports and creating millions of jobs.

In its citation, TIME highlighted his vision of building globally competitive African industries using local resources, noting his recent large-scale investments in energy and manufacturing.

Beyond business, Dangote’s philanthropic work through the Aliko Dangote Foundation continues to impact millions through initiatives in healthcare, education, nutrition, and economic empowerment.

The recognition also aligns with Dangote Group’s ambitious Vision 2030 strategy, aimed at transforming the company from a $30 billion regional conglomerate into a $100 billion global powerhouse. The plan includes expansion into steel, power, and deep-sea ports to address industrial gaps across Africa.

The 2026 TIME100 list reflects the growing global recognition of African leadership and innovation, with Dangote standing as a symbol of the continent’s rising influence on the world stage.