Aliko Dangote Named Among TIME100 Most Influential Philanthropists of 2025

In a landmark moment for African philanthropy, Aliko Dangote, Nigeria’s business tycoon and founder of the Aliko Dangote Foundation, has earned a spot on TIME Magazine’s inaugural TIME100 Philanthropy list for 2025. As the only Nigerian honored, Dangote stands alongside global giants like Michael Bloomberg, Oprah Winfrey, and Melinda French Gates in the “Titans” category. Announced on May 20, 2025, this recognition celebrates his transformative work in health, education, and economic empowerment across Africa. His $23.9 billion fortune, built through cement, agriculture, and oil refining, fuels impactful initiatives addressing the continent’s pressing challenges.

A Legacy of Strategic Giving

Dangote’s inclusion in the TIME100 Philanthropy list, spanning 100 individuals from 28 countries across four categories-Titans, Leaders, Trailblazers, and Innovators, highlights his strategic philanthropy. The Aliko Dangote Foundation, established in 1994, received a $1.25 billion endowment in 2014. It spends about $35 million yearly (over N50 billion) on programs tackling malnutrition, healthcare, and education. “Investing in nutrition, health, education, and economic empowerment sets Africans up for success,” Dangote stated. His approach merges corporate success with social good, earning praise from TIME editors as a model for responsible capitalism.

Tackling Malnutrition and Health Crises

One standout initiative is the foundation’s $100 million program to fight childhood malnutrition in Nigeria and beyond. In northern Nigeria, where malnutrition rates soar, the program delivers fortified foods and medical support to thousands. This has saved countless lives and set a benchmark for private-sector involvement in public health. Additionally, Dangote’s partnership with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Nigerian health agencies helped eradicate polio in Africa by 2020. Nigeria, once the last African nation with polio, benefited immensely from this effort. Such achievements showcase the power of collaborative philanthropy.

Empowering Through Education

Education is a cornerstone of Dangote’s mission. His $10 million donation to the Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology in Kano funds new facilities and scholarships, boosting STEM education. In 2019, the foundation gave N1.2 billion for a hostel at Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, a record-breaking individual donation to a Nigerian university. The Mu Shuka Iri (“Let’s Plant a Seed”) program trains women in Kano as Montessori-style educators. Known as “Aunties,” these women empower communities while fostering early childhood development, creating lasting impact.

Building Economic Opportunities

Dangote’s philanthropy also focuses on economic empowerment. His foundation offers vocational training and scholarships at secondary and tertiary levels. Through support for the World Economic Forum’s Young Global Leaders program, it nurtures Africa’s future leaders. “We need to create the next generation of African leaders,” Dangote said, emphasizing long-term growth. By addressing funding and infrastructure gaps, he redefines the role of private wealth in Africa’s development. His efforts fill voids often left to governments, earning widespread admiration.

A Personal Mission Rooted in Family

Dangote’s giving traces back to his mother’s influence. “My mother inspired my philanthropy 30 years ago,” he shared, hoping his three daughters will continue this legacy alongside the family’s business empire. He aspires to be remembered not just as Africa’s richest person but as its greatest philanthropist. Posts on X echoed this sentiment, celebrating the foundation’s $1.25 billion endowment and its impact on health and education. Nigerians expressed pride in Dangote’s global recognition, reflecting his deep cultural resonance.

A Global Stage for African Philanthropy

TIME’s selection, guided by editors and global development experts, honors those shaping the global giving landscape. Dangote joins 22 other Titans, including David Beckham and Dolly Parton, signaling Africa’s rising role in philanthropy. His work addresses immediate needs like disaster relief while building systems for lasting change. Investments in healthcare infrastructure strengthen Nigeria’s crisis response, while educational initiatives prepare youth for a global economy. His model, as Naija247news noted, shows how wealth can drive inclusive growth.

A Blueprint for Change

Dangote’s recognition as the sole Nigerian on the TIME100 list underscores his unique impact. His foundation’s focus on measurable outcomes, like polio eradication or the Ahmadu Bello University donation, offers a blueprint for others. With Africa grappling with poverty and educational disparities, Dangote’s work inspires. “Health, education, economic empowerment, disaster relief, and food are what African nations need,” he said. His legacy, built on action and impact, continues to transform lives across the continent.