Breaking: Nigerian Business Titan Alhaji Aminu Dantata Passes Dies At 93.
The Nigerian business community and the nation at large are mourning the loss of Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, a revered business mogul and philanthropist, who passed away on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at the age of 93. His death was confirmed by his Personal Private Secretary, Mustapha Abdullahi Junaid, in a heartfelt statement.
“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,” Junaid said.
Family sources revealed that Dantata died in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where he had been receiving medical treatment. His passing marks the end of an era for Nigerian commerce and philanthropy, particularly in Northern Nigeria, where he was celebrated as a father figure and an emblem of integrity.
Born in 1931 into the illustrious Dantata family of Kano, Alhaji Aminu was the last surviving son of Alhassan Dantata, a legendary merchant regarded as one of West Africa’s wealthiest individuals in his time. Inheriting his father’s entrepreneurial spirit, Aminu expanded the family’s legacy through successful ventures in construction, oil and gas, agriculture, and banking. He founded Express Petroleum & Gas Company Limited and played a pivotal role in establishing Jaiz Bank, Nigeria’s first Islamic financial institution.
Beyond his business acumen, Dantata was a mentor to many, including his nephew, Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man. His guidance shaped the careers of countless young entrepreneurs, earning him widespread respect. A devout Muslim, Dantata’s philanthropy touched lives across Nigeria and beyond. He funded the construction of mosques, schools, and hospitals, and supported humanitarian causes, fostering education, religious tolerance, and social welfare across ethnic and religious divides.
Since the news of his death broke, tributes have flooded in from political leaders, business executives, and religious clerics. Many have hailed him as a pillar of wisdom, humility, and nation-building. His contributions to Nigeria’s economic and social fabric are expected to resonate for generations.
The Dantata family has assured the public that details of the funeral (Janazah) arrangements will be shared in due course.
As Nigeria bids farewell to one of its most iconic figures, many join in prayer: May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may Allah grant him Al-Jannatul Firdaus.