Alaafin hails Dangote’s philanthropy, industrial achievements on 69th birthday

By Adejayan Gbenga 

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade, has praised Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, describing his philanthropic and industrial contributions as legendary, exemplary, and unparalleled.

In a congratulatory message marking Dangote’s 69th birthday, issued through his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, the monarch described the foremost industrialist as a visionary leader whose commitment to national growth has resulted in the establishment of a vast industrial empire.

Oba Owoade noted that Dangote’s creativity, innovation, and determination have positioned him as not only a leading industrial figure in Nigeria and Africa but also a global player, contributing significantly to wealth creation and employment generation.

The Alaafin also commended the philanthropic activities of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, stating that since its inception, the foundation has redefined standards in charity and humanitarian outreach. Describing Dangote as a philanthropist with a “large heart of gold,” the monarch said the industrialist consistently rises to support humanitarian causes whenever the need arises.

According to the monarch, Dangote is widely recognised as a paragon of entrepreneurship and a symbol of philanthropy, whose contributions have had lasting impacts on national development. 

He further highlighted Dangote’s role in Nigeria’s industrial transformation through the establishment of the Dangote Group, noting that the conglomerate has helped shift the country from heavy dependence on imports to greater self-sufficiency in sectors such as cement, fertilizer, and petrochemicals, describing him as a visionary leader whose dedication and foresight continue to drive Nigeria’s development and set new benchmarks across industries.

Oba Owoade also acknowledged Dangote’s involvement in national peace-building efforts as a member of the National Peace Committee, chaired by former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar. He said the committee has played significant roles in stabilising the country during periods of political tension.