This is a tribute to Aliko Dangote, the richest black man in the world. I have not seen you personally but half of the country have not seen you either. However, we see your trucks pass every day as you make about your business. As a man from Africa, you have shown the continent that dreams are indeed very possible to achieve if you put your mind to it.

As a young man of 21, you defied the normal thinking in Nigeria that you would have to reach a certain age before you can accumulate wealth. Most men start to gain their wealth when they are old and struggling. However, you have shown the world just how possible it is for a young man to become an entrepreneur and for this, you deserve this tribute.

With your recent climb in the ladder upwards to 64^th  position of the richest people in the world, it is clear that you can only keep rising in the ladder. We live in a country where many people and parents are of the opinion that their children must be doctors, lawyers and engineers before they can survive in the country. Your story proves just how much possible it is to make a living without having to do those professional courses. After all, none of those who studied them is on the same level as you in terms of wealth accumulation. 

Another thing I admire about you is your neutrality when it comes to politics. Since you become one of the richest men in the world, you have stayed away from the rigours that come with politics. Politics in Nigeria is filled with corruption and endless bickering between parties. It is a witch hunt that never seems to end. You, however, have simply minded your own business and focused on what is more important. I was sincerely impressed when you turned down the opportunity to be part of the council member of a political party in the last presidential elections that were held in the country. It was really amazing to hear and to see.

As I continue trying to imitate all that you have done in the business world, I realize just how much courage you had and the risk you took. Taking a loan of $3,000 at the early age of 21 was no easy feat. It was done by a man who was ready to do what he had to do or die trying.

As I travel across the dusty Nigerian roads, across cities and towns, I come face to face with so many of your trucks. I see them as a sign of your dominant in the Nigerian economy. I hope more Nigerian youths would strive to be like you. Without the need to be political, we can successfully turn Nigeria into a much better place. 

All we have to do is to make sure that we have a vision and work towards this vision with all that we have. We certainly hope you would lead the charge.