Africa’s billionaire class has hit a historic milestone, with their combined wealth soaring to $105 billion in 2025. Leading the pack for the 14th year is Nigerian magnate Aliko Dangote, whose net worth surged to $23.9 billion thanks to his Dangote Refinery—seen as a game-changer for Nigeria’s fuel independence. South Africa’s Johann Rupert follows, buoyed by a luxury market boom that lifted his company, Richemont. His net worth rose by 39% to $14 billion. Diamond heir Nicky Oppenheimer, Egyptian investor Nassef Sawiris, and telecoms tycoon Mike Adenuga round out the top five. Their fortunes reflect Africa’s growing footprint in global markets—from energy and luxury goods to infrastructure and telecoms—signaling a confident, diversified elite on the rise.
IOL
