Lagos , Nigeria ( CNN ) -- Worth an estimated $ 2.1bn , Aliko Dangote is one of the richest men in Africa . The Dangote Group , which he started in 1977 , trading in commodities and building materials , is now a multi-billion dollar conglomerate spanning West Africa . Today , the business covers flour , sugar , pasta , clothing and cement which made Dangote Nigeria 's first billionaire in 2007 , according to Forbes magazine . Forbes said Dangote , 53 , began his business at the age of 21 with a loan from his uncle . He studied business studies at Al-Azahar University , Cairo , Egypt . Dangote said one of his cement factories , 30 minutes from Lagos , is already one of the largest in the world , and there are plans to double its capacity . He is building another cement factory in Ibese , with workers from Nigeria , China and India . Dangote is now one of the largest private sector employers in Nigeria , with a nationwide workforce of 12000 , a figure that is set to rise with the opening of new factories . Forbes puts Dangote at number 463 on its 2010 list of the world 's billionaires , estimating his fortune to be $ 2.1bn . It said that Dangote 's commodities had helped him survive Nigeria 's financial meltdown last year , although his fortune has diminished from $ 3.3 bn in 2008 . Dangote told CNN he was motivated to create an African success story and to create employment in his home country . He said he was proud of his achievements : `` I feel great . I 'm feeling fulfilled that at least you are doing something great for your country . `` Nigeria is really the best place to invest . It is one of the best places to make money . You know all over the world it is the best kept secret actually in terms of investment . '' His drive is indisputable . Dangote says he works 12-hour days which always begin at 5am . Despite the trappings of wealth -- he has two private planes and said he ca n't remember when he last flew on a commercial airline -- Dangote , married with two children , according to Forbes , says he lives a relatively simple life . `` I like exercising a lot , '' he said . `` I go to the gym almost every day and I do about 15 km at least 6 times a week . '' Dangote also says he is committed to improving the conditions of those living close to his factory , as part of his philosophy of corporate social responsibility .
Aliko Dangote became Nigeria 's first billionaire in 2007 . Comment: Dangote 's business includes flour , sugar , pasta , clothing and cement .