(BBC) Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has shocked many Nigerians after saying he doesn’t own a house outside the country.
Mr Dangote said he had two houses – in his home town of Kano, and Lagos – and lived in a rented apartment whenever he visits the capital, Abuja.
He was listed by Forbes magazine in January as Africa’s richest man for the 13th year in a row despite the country’s economic difficulties.
His fortune rose by $400m over the last year, giving him a net worth of $13.9bn (£10.7bn), Forbes said at the time.
The 66-year-old businessman made his fortune in cement and sugar – and last year opened an oil refinery in Nigeria’s economic hub, Lagos.
The industrialist made the disclosure while speaking to journalists at the Dangote Petroleum Refinery on Sunday.
His comments surprised many in a country where the rich elite have a reputation for their opulent lifestyles.
Many wealthy Nigerians own houses in London, Dubai and Atlanta.
His comments have elicited a wide reaction on social media, with some saying it is a wise business decision as it is cheaper to pay rent than to buy a house.
