DataPro Upgrades Dangote Cement to ‘AA+’ Rating

DataPro has upgraded the long-term credit rating of Dangote Cement PLC to ‘AA+’ with a stable outlook, indicating the company's robust financial resilience despite prevailing macroeconomic headwinds. The agency affirmed the company's short-term rating at ‘A1’, signifying good credit quality and satisfactory capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, valid until June 16, 2027.

The upgrade reflects Dangote Cement's sustained financial strength and resilient operational performance, maintaining a dominant market position within Nigeria and across the African continent. DataPro's assessment followed a comprehensive evaluation of the company's capital, earnings profile, liquidity, corporate governance, and regulatory compliance.

Key drivers for the upgrade include Dangote Cement's record revenue of ₦4.31 trillion, a 20% year-on-year increase, and a profit before tax (PBT) surge of 109% to ₦1.53 trillion. Kehind Rashe, a business development client service manager at DataPro, explained that the ‘AA’ long-term rating denotes lower risk, emphasizing the company's strong revenue growth, improved operational efficiency, and robust asset base.

However, DataPro clarified that the rating carries a maximum shelf life of 12 calendar months in line with international best practices.