Dangote Cement Gets AA+ Upgrade With Stable Outlook From DataPro

DataPro, the technology-driven credit rating agency, has upgraded Dangote Cement Plc’s long-term rating to AA+ from AA, while affirming its short-term rating at A1.

The rating, which carries a Stable Outlook and is valid until June 16, 2027, reflects the cement giant’s sustained financial strength, dominant market position, and resilient performance across Nigeria and Africa.

DataPro in a statement signed by its business development & client services manager, Kehinde Rasheed stated that the assessment was based on a comprehensive review of the Company’s capitalization, earnings profile, liquidity, corporate governance, regulatory compliance and the sustainability of its financial performance over the medium to long term.

According to the Company, the Rating is underpinned by the Company’s strong brand presence, dominant market share, healthy earnings profile, robust asset base and experienced management team.

“These strengths continue to support Dangote Cement’s capacity to meet its financial obligations in a timely manner despite prevailing macroeconomic and industry headwinds.”

The review noted that Dangote Cement delivered an exceptional financial performance in 2025, recording revenue of N4.31 trillion, representing a 20 per cent year-on-year increase, while profit before tax rose by 109 per cent to N1.53 trillion.

“The Company’s profitability was strengthened by strong revenue growth, improved operating efficiency, lower finance costs and a stronger capital structure,” DataPro stated.

It added that “the AA+ long-term rating denotes Lower Risk, signifying excellent financial strength, operating performance and business profile relative to DataPro’s rating benchmarks, while the A1 short-term rating indicates Good Credit Quality and a satisfactory capacity for the timely payment of financial commitments.

DataPro noted that the Rating carries a maximum shelf life of 12 calendar months, in line with International best practice, explaining that “the rating is therefore not an offer to trade in securities nor a substitute for the user’s judgement. It is meant for reference purposes.”