Aliko Dangote Named Forbes Africa’s Person of the Year 2014

Billionaire businessman, Aliko Dangote, was on Thursday named Forbes Africa’s Person of the Year, 2014. At the unveiling ceremony in Nairobi, Kenya, Aliko Dangote, who has played key roles in Nigeria’s development, dedicated the award to Nigeria, noting he was proud to be African.
It was his fourth nomination for the position.

The panel of judges said “Aliko Dangote is a lion of Africa in terms of business. He is second to none when it comes to investing in Africa, not just Nigeria.

“He is also a capitalist with a big heart. He puts his money where his mouth is and his foundation is a step forward for a man who wants to make a difference on the continent.”

Dangote clinched the award ahead of other finalists; South Africa’s Public Protector, Thuli Madonsela; Nigerian author, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie; Director-General of the Securities & Exchange Commission- Nigeria, Arunma Oteh and President of the African Development Bank, Donald Kaberuka.

Reacting via his Twitter handle, @AlikoDangote, the business mogul tweeted: “Thank you @forbesafrica. I am humbled by this honour. I dedicate the award to Nigeria and I am proud to be an African.”