Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has appointed his son-in-law, Jamil Abubakar, as the Managing Director for Infrastructure and Logistics at the Dangote Group, effective April 20, 2026.
The appointment, confirmed in an internal company memo seen by ENigeria Newspaper, and later shared via Abubakar’s verified LinkedIn account, underscores the group’s strategic push to strengthen its logistics and trade infrastructure across Africa.
According to the memo, Jamil Abubakar, son of retired Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Abubakar who is married to Dangote’s daughter, Fatima Dangote, will report directly to the company’s President and Chief Executive. In his new role, he will oversee the group’s ports and trade-enabling infrastructure, with responsibilities spanning the evaluation of new port opportunities, enhancement of logistics capacity, and support for manufacturing and energy operations across Nigeria and other African markets.
According to the company, the appointment aligns with Dangote Group’s Vision 2030 strategy, which seeks to expand its industrial footprint and establish a scalable, pan-African logistics and port network. The long-term goal is to improve supply chains, boost exports, and position the conglomerate as a $100 billion enterprise by the end of the decade.
ENigeria Newspaper reports that Abubakar an accomplished entrepreneur himself, brings over 14 years of experience in commercial aviation to his new role. A trained pilot, Abubakar has worked with reputable commercial airlines including IRS Airlines, Azman Air, NG Eagle, and XE Jets. He previously served as Chief Pilot at Azman Air and NG Eagle, where he managed flight operations, safety protocols, and fleet coordination.
Industry observers note that his background in operational management and safety oversight could prove valuable in enhancing the efficiency and reliability of Dangote Group’s logistics framework.
The appointment also highlights the growing involvement of the Dangote family in the business. While several subsidiaries of the conglomerate are publicly listed on the Nigerian Exchange, members of the Dangote family, including his daughters, play active roles within the organization.
Industry analysts suggest that this move may signal a broader succession strategy, as the group positions a new generation of leadership to sustain and expand its operations across the continent.
With continued investments in infrastructure, energy, and manufacturing, Dangote Group remains one of Africa’s most influential industrial players, and its evolving leadership structure is expected to shape its long-term trajectory.
