Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has seen his net worth rise sharply to about $36.5 billion, according to the latest update from the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. The increase places him 61st among the world’s richest individuals as of June 2026.

His fortune has grown by roughly $6.5 billion since the start of the year, driven mainly by stronger valuations across his industrial holdings. A major contributor is the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, which has rapidly become one of the most valuable private industrial assets in Africa. The refinery alone accounts for a large share of his overall wealth, based on its estimated construction value and operational scale.

Beyond the refinery, his interests in cement, sugar, and other manufacturing sectors continue to support his rising net worth. Dangote Cement remains one of the strongest drivers, alongside other businesses under the Dangote Group.
Analysts note that the refinery’s full-scale operations have significantly reshaped the valuation of his business empire, reinforcing Nigeria’s role in global energy and industrial production.

Dangote also maintains major investments in fertiliser production, agriculture, and consumer goods, all contributing to the steady expansion of his portfolio.

The latest Bloomberg ranking highlights a widening gap between him and other African billionaires, further cementing his position as the continent’s wealth leader.