Dangote Named GNA Person Of The Year 2025, For Transformative Impact On Nigeria’s Economy
Africa’s foremost industrialist, Aliko Dangote, has been officially named the Great Nigerian Assembly (GNA) Person of the Year 2025, in a prestigious recognition of his far-reaching contributions to Nigeria’s economic transformation, industrial growth, and national development. The announcement was jointly highlighted by His Royal Majesty Oba Rasheed Oladele, the Adagba of Iyanfoworogi, and the Executive Director of GNA, Dr. Kayode Elusoji, during a grand assembly event attended by leaders from across the country.
Speaking at the ceremony, Oba Rasheed Oladele described Dangote as “a builder of modern Nigeria’s economic backbone,” emphasizing that the honour celebrates not only business excellence but national impact. According to the monarch, Dangote represents a model of visionary leadership whose investments continue to reshape the nation’s industrial landscape.
Dr. Kayode Elusoji, in his remarks as Executive Director of GNA, stated that Dangote’s selection followed a rigorous review process conducted by the Assembly’s leadership. He explained that nominees were evaluated based on measurable national impact, including job creation, infrastructure development, industrial expansion, and social responsibility. “Dangote’s contributions stand at a scale that affects millions of Nigerians directly and indirectly,” Elusoji said. “His work aligns with the values GNA seeks to promote — enterprise, resilience, and long-term nation building.”
Dangote, President and Chief Executive of the Dangote Group, leads one of Africa’s largest industrial conglomerates, with operations spanning cement manufacturing, sugar refining, salt production, agriculture, and oil and gas. GNA executives noted that these sectors are critical to reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imports while strengthening domestic production capacity.
Special attention was given to the Dangote Refinery project, which Dr. Elusoji described as “a landmark industrial milestone not just for Nigeria but for the entire African continent.” According to GNA, the refinery is expected to significantly reduce fuel importation, conserve foreign exchange, and stimulate widespread employment across multiple value chains.
Oba Rasheed Oladele further praised Dangote’s continued confidence in Nigeria, noting that sustained large-scale investment in the face of economic uncertainty sends a strong signal to global investors about the country’s long-term potential. “It takes courage and patriotism to build at this scale,” the monarch stated.
Beyond commerce, Dangote’s humanitarian efforts were also central to the decision. Through the Aliko Dangote Foundation, he has funded major interventions in healthcare, education, nutrition, and emergency relief. Dr. Elusoji emphasized that this balance between profit and purpose reflects the kind of leadership GNA aims to spotlight. “True greatness is measured not only by wealth created but by lives improved,” he added.
The GNA Person of the Year award, organizers explained, is designed to honour individuals whose influence shapes Nigeria’s future. The Assembly noted that Dangote’s journey serves as a powerful example to young entrepreneurs, demonstrating that disciplined vision and bold investments can drive national progress.
The announcement was met with widespread applause from dignitaries, including business executives, traditional leaders, and civic stakeholders present at the event. Many described the recognition as both timely and well deserved.
With HRN Oba Rasheed Oladele and Executive Director Dr. Kayode Elusoji jointly underscoring the significance of the honour, Dangote’s emergence as GNA Person of the Year 2025 stands as a celebration of industrial leadership, economic patriotism, and lasting impact on Nigeria’s development trajectory.
