Nigerian billionaire industrialist Aliko Dangote has revealed how dependent he is on his mobile phone, joking that he would rather be sent to prison than have the device taken away from him.
Dangote made the remark during an event in Lagos where he unveiled his Vision 2030 ambition for industrial expansion and economic transformation across Africa.
Asked to choose between spending a week without his phone or giving up his private jet, the president of Dangote Group made it clear that losing access to his phone would be the more difficult option.
“Ah… I think it’s easier you put me in prison than to take my phone away. So, you know, I mean taking my phone away is no-go area, okay?” he said.
Dangote also disclosed that his phone contains more than 13,000 contacts, reflecting the extensive network of personal and professional relationships he has developed over the years.
“I have more than 13,000 contacts on my phone,” he said, adding that he rarely blocks people and that many individuals have access to his number.
He explained that he generally answers his calls, a habit that helps him maintain contact with people across his business and personal networks.
The light-hearted comments offered a glimpse into the communication habits of one of Africa’s most prominent business figures, whose activities span industries including cement, fertiliser, energy and petroleum refining.
Dangote’s remarks came against the backdrop of his broader Vision 2030 agenda, which centres on expanding industrial capacity, increasing investment and strengthening Africa’s ability to produce essential goods locally.
His business group has outlined ambitious expansion plans across several sectors, including energy and manufacturing, as it seeks to increase production capacity and broaden its continental footprint.
While the phone anecdote attracted attention for its humour, it also underscored the role of direct communication and professional relationships in managing a large and diversified business empire.