CICAN to Confer Grand Patron Title on Dangote at 2026 Workshop, Awards
The Commerce and Industry Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CICAN) will recognise Dangote Group President and Chairman Alhaji Aliko Dangote, GCON, as its Grand Patron at its 2026 National Workshop and Awards Ceremony.
The event is scheduled for Thursday, November 19, 2026, at Protea Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos. It is expected to bring together stakeholders from government, the organised private sector, commerce, industry, finance and the media.
In a letter dated August 23, 2026, CICAN said Dangote’s nomination reflected his contributions to Nigeria’s economic growth and industrial development. The letter was signed by the association’s National Chairman, Taiwo Ademola Hassan, and Secretary-General, Olufemi Orioye.
The association cited Dangote’s investments in manufacturing, agriculture, infrastructure, job creation, export development and economic diversification, saying they had helped strengthen Nigeria’s productive capacity.
CICAN also noted that Dangote Group had grown into one of Africa’s leading indigenous business conglomerates, supporting local businesses, creating employment opportunities and strengthening value chains across several sectors.
The association commended Dangote’s commitment to large-scale industrialisation, saying his investments demonstrated the ability of Nigerian entrepreneurs to build globally competitive enterprises and support the country’s drive for self-sufficiency and reduced import dependence.
CICAN said that, as journalists covering commerce, industry, trade, investment and the broader business environment, its members recognised the role of responsible private-sector investment in national development.
Alongside naming Dangote its Grand Patron, the association will present him with a Special Award for Outstanding Contribution to Nigeria’s Economic Growth and Industrial Development.
CICAN said his acceptance of the role could strengthen its relationship with the organised private sector and support greater collaboration to promote informed public discussion of commerce, industry and Nigeria’s economic development.
The 2026 workshop and awards ceremony will focus on issues affecting Nigeria’s business environment, industrial development and economic growth, while recognising individuals and organisations for their contributions to the economy.
