By Kehinde Ibrahim, Lagos
DANGOTE Cement Plc has secured an upgrade to its long-term credit rating following a strong financial performance and sustained operational resilience, reinforcing investor confidence in the company’s ability to navigate Nigeria’s challenging business environment.
The latest assessment by DataPro Rating Agency raised the cement manufacturer’s long-term credit rating to AA+ from AA, while reaffirming its short-term rating at A1 with a Stable Outlook. The agency said the improved rating reflects Dangote Cement’s solid earnings, dominant market position and strong capacity to meet both short- and long-term financial obligations. The ratings will remain valid until June 16, 2027.
According to DataPro, the rating upgrade underscores the company’s sustained financial strength, resilient operating performance and leadership in Nigeria’s cement industry as well as its growing footprint across Africa.
The agency said the assessment followed a comprehensive review of Dangote Cement’s financial profile, including its capital adequacy, profitability, liquidity, corporate governance standards, regulatory compliance and the sustainability of its earnings over the medium to long term.
DataPro noted that the company’s strong brand equity, dominant market share, robust asset base and experienced management team continue to enhance its financial stability and ability to meet its obligations as they fall due.
The rating agency also highlighted Dangote Cement’s impressive financial performance for the 2025 financial year, describing it as a key factor behind the rating upgrade.
According to the report, the company recorded revenue of N4.31 trillion in 2025, representing a 20 per cent increase over the previous year. Profit before tax surged by 109 per cent to N1.53 trillion, supported by stronger sales volumes, improved operational efficiency, lower finance costs and a strengthened capital structure.
DataPro explained that the AA+ long-term rating denotes very low credit risk and reflects the company’s excellent financial strength, sound business fundamentals and strong operating performance relative to industry benchmarks.
It added that the A1 short-term rating signifies high credit quality and demonstrates Dangote Cement’s strong capacity to meet its short-term financial commitments promptly.
While affirming the ratings, the agency stated that credit ratings are intended to serve as an independent assessment of a company’s creditworthiness and should not be interpreted as investment advice or a recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities.
DataPro further noted that, in line with international best practice, the rating has a maximum validity period of 12 calendar months and should be used only as a reference tool alongside investors’ independent analysis and due diligence.
