Mariya Dangote Reveals Why Dangote Cement Chose London Over Dubai for Global Listing

Mariya Dangote, a director of Dangote Cement Plc and daughter of Africa’s richest businessman, Aliko Dangote, has explained why the company opted to pursue a secondary listing on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) instead of the Dubai Financial Market, citing speed, efficiency and easier access to global investors as the primary reasons behind the decision.

Speaking in a recent interview, Mariya disclosed that although Dubai was seriously considered as a potential listing destination, the process would have taken significantly longer to complete.

She noted that London offered a faster and more practical route for the company to access international capital markets while supporting its long-term expansion strategy. “We thought of the secondary listing in Dubai, but it would have taken years. London is more compatible with our business,” she said.

The planned secondary listing forms part of Dangote Group’s broader ambition to expand its global footprint, attract international institutional investors and strengthen its access to long-term capital.

The company has indicated that the listing is expected to take place before the end of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and prevailing market conditions.

Industry analysts believe the move could significantly enhance Dangote Cement’s international profile by increasing liquidity in its shares, improving price discovery and broadening its investor base beyond Nigeria.

The listing is also expected to support the conglomerate’s wider growth strategy as it pursues major investments in cement production, refining and fertiliser, with the long-term goal of transforming the Dangote Group into a $100 billion industrial enterprise by 2030.

The decision has been welcomed by market observers, who view it as a strategic step that reinforces London’s position as a preferred destination for major African companies seeking international capital, while demonstrating Dangote Cement’s confidence in its future growth prospects and global competitiveness.