Dangote’s Soaring Fortune vs. A Forgotten Promise
For the 14th consecutive year, Aliko Dangote, Africa’s wealthiest man and the world’s richest Black person, has retained his crown atop Forbes’ Africa Billionaires list. His net worth has skyrocketed to $23.9 billion, nearly doubling from last year—thanks largely to the historic launch of his $20 billion Dangote Refinery, Africa’s largest oil and gas facility.
Yet, as Dangote’s financial empire expands, an old promise lingers—unfulfilled and increasingly conspicuous. Over a decade ago, in the euphoria of Nigeria’s 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory, Dangote pledged $1 million to the triumphant Super Eagles. Today, that pledge remains unpaid, casting a shadow over his reputation as a benefactor of Nigerian sports.
A Meteoric Rise—And a Stagnant Pledge
Dangote’s wealth surge is staggering. Since last year, his fortune has grown by $10.5 billion, propelling him to 83rd place on the global rich list. His empire, spanning cement, sugar, and now oil, has cemented his status as Africa’s foremost industrialist.
But while his refinery promises to reshape Africa’s energy sector, his 2013 promise to Nigeria’s football heroes remains in limbo. The Super Eagles, led by captain John Mikel Obi and coached by the late Stephen Keshi, delivered Nigeria’s first AFCON title in 19 years, sparking nationwide jubilation. Dangote’s pledge, alongside a $500,000 promise from banker Tony Elumelu, was seen as a patriotic gesture.
Twelve years later, neither has delivered.
A Pattern of Broken Promises in Nigerian Sports
The unfulfilled commitments have fueled frustration among fans and former players, exposing a troubling trend in Nigerian sports—where grand pledges often go unhonored.
In stark contrast, Japanese plastic surgeon Dr. Katsuya Takasu set a powerful example in 2016. After Nigeria’s Olympic football team won bronze at the Rio Games, Takasu immediately handed over $390,000 —$200,000 to coach Samson Siasia and $190,000 to Mikel Obi —within hours of their victory. His swift action earned global acclaim, with many hailing him as a “man of his word.”
For Dangote, whose $23.9 billion fortune makes the $1 million pledge a mere 0.005% of his wealth, the delay raises questions about accountability—especially for a man whose influence extends far beyond business.
Public Outcry and a Legacy at Stake
Nigerians have taken to social media to express their disappointment.
“This shows Nigeria’s problem of failed promises runs deep—from politicians to billionaires,” one X user lamented.
“No wonder some players hesitate to give their all for the national team,” another remarked.
As Dangote celebrates another year as Africa’s richest man, the unpaid AFCON reward serves as a sobering reminder: true legacy is built not just on wealth, but on keeping one’s word.
For the 2013 Super Eagles, the wait continues—even as Dangote’s billions grow larger by the day.