Yemisi Izuora
Africa-focused credit rating agency, DataPro, has upgraded the long-term credit rating of Dangote Cement Plc from AA to AA+, citing the company’s sustained financial strength, resilient operating performance and dominant market position in Nigeria and across Africa.
The Agency also affirmed the cement manufacturer’s short-term rating at A1 and assigned a Stable Outlook to the ratings, which remain valid until June 16, 2027.
In a statement, DataPro’s Business Development and Client Services Manager, Kehinde Rasheed, said the upgrade reflects Dangote Cement’s robust financial fundamentals and its ability to maintain strong performance despite prevailing macroeconomic and industry challenges.
According to the rating agency, the assessment followed a comprehensive review of the company’s capitalisation, earnings profile, liquidity position, corporate governance framework, regulatory compliance and the sustainability of its financial performance over the medium to long term.
DataPro noted that the rating was supported by Dangote Cement’s strong brand equity, dominant market share, healthy earnings profile, substantial asset base and experienced management team.
The Agency stated that these strengths continue to enhance the company’s capacity to meet its financial obligations promptly, even amid economic headwinds affecting businesses across the continent.
Dangote Cement posted an impressive financial performance in the 2025 financial year, recording revenue of ₦4.31 trillion, representing a 20 per cent increase over the previous year.
Profit before tax rose by 109 per cent to ₦1.53 trillion, driven by strong revenue growth, improved operational efficiency, reduced finance costs and a stronger capital structure.
DataPro explained that the AA+ long-term rating signifies low credit risk and reflects excellent financial strength, operating performance and business profile relative to its rating benchmarks.
Similarly, the A1 short-term rating indicates good credit quality and a satisfactory capacity to meet short-term financial obligations as they fall due.
The Agency added that the rating has a maximum shelf life of 12 calendar months in line with international best practice and should be regarded as a reference tool for investors and stakeholders rather than an offer to trade in securities or a substitute for independent investment judgement.