Nigeria has lost one of its most influential business magnates and philanthropists, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, who passed away in the early hours of Saturday, June 28, at the age of 94.
His death was reportedly due to complications arising from age-related illnesses, according to family sources.
The news of his passing was confirmed by Uba Tanko Mijinyawa, the Deputy National Treasurer of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), in a statement shared via his Facebook page. He wrote:
“Inna Lillahi wa’inna ilaihi Raji’un. Allah ya yi wa babanmu Dattijo, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, rasuwa. Muna addu’a Allah ya jikan sa, ya gafarta masa. Za a sanar da lokacin jana’izarsa.”
(Translation: “Indeed, we belong to Allah and to Him we shall return. May Allah have mercy on our father and elder, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata. We pray for his forgiveness. The time of his funeral will be announced.”)
Funeral arrangements, in line with Islamic customs, are expected to take place later today. Official details regarding the Jana’iza (Muslim funeral prayer) are to be communicated to the public in due course.
Born on May 19, 1931, Alhaji Aminu Dantata was a towering figure in Nigeria’s commercial evolution. He was a central player in shaping the economic trajectory of Kano State and northern Nigeria, particularly through his investments in finance, petroleum, and real estate. Over the decades, he established and supported numerous enterprises that contributed significantly to regional and national growth.
Beyond the boardroom, Dantata was revered for his humanitarianism. A staunch advocate for education and youth empowerment, he invested heavily in scholarships, skills development programmes, and poverty alleviation initiatives. His philanthropic footprints span several communities and generations.
His role as a peacemaker among businessmen and political actors in Kano and beyond was also notable. His efforts in fostering harmony and constructive dialogue among stakeholders have been described as unparalleled.
As Nigeria bids farewell to one of its most distinguished elders, tributes continue to pour in from across the country and beyond, celebrating a life well-lived in service to humanity and nation-building.