Africa’s Richest Man Bets Big on Local Farming

Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man, is now investing billions of dollars into farming and food production across Nigeria and the continent.

Known for building the continent’s largest cement and oil businesses, Dangote is now focused on agriculture, aiming to improve food security and reduce Africa’s reliance on imports.

Official reports confirm these investments include a $2.5 billion fertiliser plant in Lagos, which is now the largest in Africa and produces three million tonnes of urea every year.

This plant helps farmers get more fertiliser at better prices, which can boost crop yields and reduce the need for expensive imports. Nigeria’s president and central bank governor have both said this plant will help the country become self-sufficient in fertiliser and food.

Dangote’s push into agriculture does not stop at fertiliser. He has committed $1 billion to commercial rice farming, the largest single investment in rice production on the continent.

His company has already bought 150,000 hectares of farmland in several Nigerian states and is building two modern rice mills. These mills will process up to 120,000 tonnes of rice daily.

Driving Nigeria Toward Food Security and Economic Empowerment

Dangote Rice Ltd plans to produce one million tonnes of rice in 2025, supporting over 250 hectares of rice fields and working with smallholder farmers by providing seeds, fertiliser, and training.

This is important because Nigeria used to spend nearly $1.8 billion a year importing rice. By increasing local production, Dangote’s projects aim to create jobs, lower rice prices, and help Nigeria become a net exporter.

The Dangote Group is also building a high-capacity rice mill in Niger State, with 32 silos and a dedicated power plant. The company will buy rice from local farmers, support them with inputs, and ensure steady demand for their crops.

This model helps thousands of farmers earn more and strengthens the entire supply chain. Beyond business, the Aliko Dangote Foundation has launched a national food programme to distribute over one million 10kg bags of rice to vulnerable Nigerians in 2025.

The initiative will cost N16 billion. Dangote’s investments are changing how food is grown and processed in Africa, aiming to make the continent less dependent on imports and more resilient to global shocks.

These moves are grounded in hard numbers and official statements, showing a clear shift toward food self-reliance and economic opportunity for millions.