Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has said his wealth does not prevent him from staying in basic accommodation, urging Nigerians to embrace humility and simplicity regardless of their financial status.
The billionaire shared his views at the Vision 2030 event on Monday, 19 October 2026, where he also accepted content creator Bae U Barbie’s invitation to appear on his YouTube show, Curiosity Made Me Ask.
Dangote said people should not allow success or wealth to make them feel superior to others, noting that circumstances can change at any time.
Speaking at the event, the industrialist explained that he could comfortably stay in a poorly rated hotel, take a shower and leave without feeling uneasy.
“Today, if you take me to anywhere, if you take me to the worst hotel, I can sleep, I can have my shower, I can leave.”
He added, “So because life is about simplicity, and make sure that, look, don’t take yourself up there.”
Dangote also cited his friendship with Ethiopia’s prime minister as an example of modest living. He recalled asking the leader why he did not have a driver, only to discover that his wife drove him.
Dangote says older generations owe young people honest conversations
Dangote’s appearance at the event also provided an opportunity to respond to Bae U Barbie’s invitation to engage directly with young Nigerians through his YouTube platform.
He acknowledged the need to engage younger people, saying, “Honestly, the future that we have is actually you, the youth. Our generation, really, has not done very well for Nigeria or Africa. That’s the truth.”
He added, “So we need to sit down with some of you and discuss our own experience with you.”
Dangote said young Nigerians had continued to show him respect and support. He recalled how his childhood experiences of meeting prominent people had influenced his willingness to take photographs with members of the public.