Nigeria has lost one of its most iconic businessmen and philanthropists, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, who died at the age of 94.
The news of his passing was confirmed on Thursday by his longtime Personal Private Secretary (PPS), Mustapha Abdullahi Junaid, who shared a heartfelt message:
“Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un. Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un. 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.”
According to Malam Ibrahim Khalil, Chairman of the Kano Council of Ulama, the funeral prayer (Salatul Janazah) will take place at 2:00 PM at Umar Bin Khattab Mosque in Gyadi-Gyadi, Kano.
Born into the illustrious Dantata family of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Dantata was the son of Alhassan Dantata, one of West Africa’s wealthiest figures in the early 20th century.
Aminu not only carried forward the family legacy but elevated it, becoming a national figure known for his role in commerce, public service, and philanthropy.
Dantata’s vast business interests covered multiple sectors, from construction, banking, agriculture, and oil and gas to manufacturing. Under his leadership, the Dantata Group grew into one of Nigeria’s most influential private-sector enterprises.
Over the years, he also served in various government and private sector capacities, helping to shape policy and nurture upcoming leaders in business and governance.
Despite his stature, Dantata was widely admired for his humility, deep faith, and commitment to community upliftment.
His quiet but impactful philanthropy changed thousands of lives.
He established and supported numerous schools, mosques, hospitals, orphanages, and community projects, particularly across northern Nigeria.
Widows, students, and the underserved regularly benefitted from his generosity—often delivered discreetly and without fanfare.
News of his death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the country.
Business magnates, political leaders, religious scholars, and everyday Nigerians have described him as a guiding light in both commerce and humanitarian service.
Alhaji Aminu Dantata is survived by his children, grandchildren, and a wide network of admirers and beneficiaries who continue to be inspired by his enduring legacy.
