Nigeria has lost one of its finest sons. Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, a renowned businessman and philanthropist, has died at the age of 94.
Death Confirmed by Family Aide
His longtime aide, Mustapha Abdullahi Junaid, shared the sad news on Saturday. He announced it in a short Facebook post, saying:
“It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of our beloved father, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata. May Allah grant him Jannatul Firdaus and forgive his shortcomings. The Janazah details will be shared later, Insha Allah.”
A Life Rooted in Legacy
Born on May 19, 1931, Dantata came from the famous Dantata family in Kano. His father, Alhaji Alhassan Dantata, was one of the richest merchants in West Africa during the early 20th century.
Aminu didn’t just inherit wealth he built upon it. He launched Express Petroleum & Gas Company Ltd and expanded the family’s businesses into multiple sectors. These included construction, agriculture, banking, real estate, and oil and gas.
Service Beyond Business
Dantata’s influence went beyond the private sector. He served in the Kano State Government and was a member of the committee that drafted Nigeria’s 1979 Constitution. His leadership helped shape both the economy and national policy.
A Legacy of Giving
Despite his success, Dantata remained humble and deeply religious. He invested millions in social development. He helped build schools, hospitals, mosques, and orphanages. He also mentored young entrepreneurs and donated generously to Islamic and educational causes.
Tributes and Final Moments
Uba Tanko, Deputy National Treasurer of NACCIMA, also mourned his passing and praised his dedication to progress and service.
Though some early reports claimed he died in Abuja, family sources confirmed he passed away on Friday in a hospital in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
The family has promised to share funeral details soon.
