Business leaders across Northern Nigeria have lauded Africa’s foremost philanthropist, Aliko Dangote, for his distinction as the sole Nigerian named on Time Magazine’s 2026 list of the world’s 100 most influential people.

President of the Kaduna Chamber of Commerce Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KADCCIMA), Farouk Suleiman, said: “This distinction is not only a personal milestone for Mr Dangote, but also a moment of pride for Nigeria and the African continent.”

He described Dangote as the backbone of the chamber, adding that his company’s sponsorship of trade fairs has helped to sustain the yearly event.

Also speaking, one of the leaders of Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) in Kano/Jigawa, Nura Madugu, observed that from cement production to petrochemicals and agriculture, Dangote’s investments have reshaped critical sectors of the economy and strengthened Nigeria’s position in regional and global markets.

He added that beyond business, his impact as a philanthropist further justified this global recognition.

“For us at MAN, his recognition serves as an inspiration to the private sector, reinforcing the importance of enterprise, resilience, and nation-building,” he stated.

In his remarks, Director-General of Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Agabaidu Jideani, said: “This global honour is not only a testament to his extraordinary entrepreneurial achievements but also a reflection of the growing influence of African business leaders on the world stage.

“The ACCI is proud to be associated with Dangote and remains committed to supporting policies and platforms that enable businesses to thrive, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to national and continental development.”

Chairman of the Nigeria Association of Small-Scale Industrialists (NASSI), Nasarawa State chapter, Nidan Sambo Manasseh, said Dangote’s selection was well justified, going by his transformative role in advancing industrialisation across key sectors of the economy.

“For members of NASSI, his success reinforces the importance of vision, discipline, and long-term commitment in building sustainable industries,” he added.