Dangote, Trump Named to TIME’s 2026 100 Most Influential People List

Aliko Dangote and United States President Donald Trump have been named on TIME’s 2026 list of the 100 Most Influential People, placing them among figures shaping global business, politics, and public conversation.

Released on April 15, the list recognises people making a major impact across politics, technology, culture, and leadership. Other names on this year’s list include Xi Jinping, Benjamin Netanyahu, Mark Carney, Pope Leo XIV, Sundar Pichai, and Neal Mohan.

Dangote was listed in the Titans category and is the only Nigerian on the 2026 list. Other Africans recognised this year include Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Precious Matsoso, Anok Yai, Mamadou Amadou Ly, and Zabib Musa Loro.

This is Dangote’s second TIME100 appearance. He was first honoured in 2014 for his influence in business and philanthropy.

As founder of Africa’s largest indigenous industrial conglomerate, Dangote has built major businesses in cement, sugar, fertiliser, agriculture, and infrastructure, while also expanding into energy. His investments have helped strengthen local production, reduce import dependence, and create jobs.

TIME said Dangote’s recognition reflects his long-term effort to build globally competitive industries using African resources, especially through large investments in manufacturing and energy.

Beyond business, he is also known for his philanthropic work through the Aliko Dangote Foundation, which supports healthcare, education, nutrition, disaster relief, and economic empowerment.

The recognition also comes as Dangote Group pushes its Vision 2030 plan, which aims to grow the company from a $30 billion regional player into a $100 billion global business.

The latest TIME list highlights the growing global recognition of African influence, with Dangote standing out for his industrial scale and long-term economic impact.