In a strategic move to bolster its economic advisory capabilities, the Dangote Group has announced the appointment of a distinguished economist and former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) director to a top leadership role.
A Strategic Appointment for Volatile Times
Dr. Mahmud Hassan has been named the new Group Chief Economist for the Dangote Group. This appointment, effective from 15 December 2025, comes at a period marked by significant fluctuations in both global and domestic markets. The group stated that bringing Hassan on board is aimed at strengthening its capacity for deep economic insight and policy intelligence.
In his new position, Dr. Hassan will function as the principal adviser to the conglomerate on matters of economic strategy, analysis of market trends, and the implications of various policies. He will report directly to the group's President, Aliko Dangote.
Three Decades of Economic Expertise
Dr. Mahmud Hassan is not a newcomer to the complex world of economics and finance. He brings to the table an impressive over 30 years of professional experience. His career is deeply rooted in economic policy formulation, financial sector regulation, and central banking operations.
His tenure at the Central Bank of Nigeria was particularly notable, where he occupied several high-level positions. These included serving as the Director of the Trade and Exchange Department and the Director of the Monetary Policy Department. Furthermore, he acted as the Secretary to the influential Monetary Policy Committee and held the role of Special Assistant on Economic Policy and Research to the CBN Governor.
Academic Pedigree and Regional Influence
Beyond Nigeria's borders, Dr. Hassan has been instrumental in shaping regional economic integration efforts. He has served as a lead consultant to the African Union Commission, advising on critical trade integration initiatives and contributing to plans for establishing the African Monetary Fund.
His academic credentials are equally formidable:
- A PhD in Economics from the University of Surrey, United Kingdom.
- An MSc in Energy Economics and Policy, also from the University of Surrey.
- A BSc in Economics from the prestigious Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria.
He is also an alumnus of the Harvard Kennedy School and holds professional certifications as a Bank Examiner and an AML/CFT Analyst.
Dr. Hassan is a Fellow of multiple esteemed professional bodies, including the Nigerian Statistical Association, the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, and the Compliance Institute of Nigeria. He is a prolific researcher with numerous publications in fields like macroeconomics, monetary policy, and energy economics.
Outside his corporate duties, he remains engaged with academia as a visiting professor at several Nigerian universities and currently holds the position of President of the Nigerian Association for Energy Economics.
This appointment clearly signals the Dangote Group's commitment to leveraging top-tier economic expertise as it continues to navigate and expand its operations across Nigeria, Africa, and the wider global economy.
