By Our Correspondent

National News – Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote and United States President Donald Trump have been named in the 2026 TIME 100 Most Influential People list, released on April 15 by TIME Magazine.

The annual ranking highlights individuals shaping global business, politics, technology, and culture.

Dangote, the only Nigerian on the list, was recognised in the Titans category for his sustained industrial impact, while Trump was honoured for his continued political influence.

The TIME 100 list answers the key questions of who is shaping global conversations, what they are influencing, when the recognition occurred, where their impact is felt, why they matter, and how they have achieved prominence.

Dangote earned his place through decades of strategic investments across cement, sugar, fertiliser, and energy, strengthening Africa’s industrial base.

Trump, on the other hand, was listed for his role in global politics and policy direction.

Other global figures on the list include Xi Jinping, Benjamin Netanyahu, Sundar Pichai, and Neal Mohan.

The list also features notable Africans such as Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and Anok Yai, reflecting increasing representation from the continent in leadership, culture, and public health.

This marks Dangote’s second appearance on the TIME 100 list, having first been honoured in 2014.

His influence stems from building Africa’s largest industrial conglomerate, the Dangote Group, which continues to expand into energy and infrastructure.

Through the Aliko Dangote Foundation, he has also supported healthcare, education, and disaster relief initiatives across Africa.

The 2026 recognition underscores how African business leaders are shaping global economic narratives, with Dangote’s long-term vision driving local production, reducing import dependence, and creating jobs.

Analysts say his inclusion highlights Africa’s growing role in global industry and investment.