Metro
“I Can Sleep in the Worst Hotel” – Dangote Speaks on Life as a Billionaire
Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has revealed that his wealth has not stopped him from staying in basic accommodation, stressing the importance of humility and simplicity regardless of one’s financial status.
The Nigerian billionaire shared his views at the Vision 2030 event on Monday, October 19, 2026. During the event, he also agreed to appear on content creator Bae U Barbie’s YouTube show, Curiosity Made Me Ask.
ALSO READ:
Dangote advised Nigerians not to allow success or wealth to make them feel superior to others, noting that circumstances can change at any time.
Dangote Explains Why He Values Simple Living
Speaking at the event, the industrialist explained that he could comfortably stay in a poorly rated hotel without feeling the need to maintain a luxurious lifestyle at all times.
He said he could sleep in a basic hotel, take a shower and leave without feeling uncomfortable about the experience.
“Today, if you take me to anywhere, if you take me to the worst hotel, I can sleep, I can have my shower, I can leave,” Dangote said.
He added that people should embrace simplicity and avoid placing themselves on a pedestal because of their achievements.
“So because life is about simplicity, and make sure that, look, don’t take yourself up there,” he stated.
Dangote also shared an experience involving his friendship with the Prime Minister of Ethiopia. He recalled asking the leader why he did not have a driver, only to discover that his wife drove him.
Dangote Says Older Generations Owe Young Nigerians Honest Conversations
During the event, Dangote also responded to an invitation from Bae U Barbie to speak directly with younger Nigerians on her YouTube platform.
He acknowledged the importance of engaging young people and sharing experiences that could help them understand the challenges facing Nigeria and Africa.
“Honestly, the future that we have is actually you, the youth. Our generation, really, has not done very well for Nigeria or Africa. That’s the truth,” he said.
He added that older generations needed to have meaningful conversations with young people and share lessons from their experiences.
“So we need to sit down with some of you and discuss our own experience with you,” Dangote stated.
The billionaire also spoke about the respect and support he has received from young Nigerians. He recalled how his own experiences meeting prominent people as a child influenced his willingness to take photographs with members of the public.
His remarks highlighted his views on humility, simple living and the importance of sharing experiences with younger generations.