Dangote Reveals Ethiopian Prime Minister Never Used a Driver in Eight Years, Says His Wife Drove Him Around

Aliko Dangote has disclosed that the Prime Minister of Ethiopia went eight years in office without a personal driver, sharing the anecdote as an example of humility and simple living.

Speaking at an event, the Nigerian billionaire said he made the discovery during a visit to Ethiopia to launch a fertiliser plant, when he asked the Prime Minister why he did not have a driver.

According to Dangote, the Ethiopian leader explained that his wife was the one driving him around.

“I have a friend, the prime minister of Ethiopia is my friend. You know what he said to me? He said, ‘Aliko, I’ve been a prime minister for the last 8 years; I have never ever used a driver,'” Dangote recounted.

The businessman used the story to illustrate why people should not allow their positions, wealth or influence to make them feel superior to others.

Dangote also spoke about his own comfort with simplicity, saying he could sleep in even the worst hotel without feeling embarrassed.

“I always tell people that wherever you take me today, even if you take me to the worst hotel — I don’t want to use a prison as an example — I can sleep there, take my shower and live comfortably,” he said.

He added: “Life is about simplicity. Make sure you don’t place yourself on a pedestal or think you are above others”.