The Nigerian business community is mourning the loss of one of its most prominent figures, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, who died at the age of 94. His passing was publicly confirmed on Saturday by his Principal Private Secretary, Mustapha Abdullahi Junaid, through a heartfelt Facebook post.
“It is with 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 wrote.
okay.ng reports that Dantata, a respected philanthropist and founder of Express Petroleum & Gas Company Ltd, was widely regarded for his significant contributions to Nigeria’s business landscape. He was also the brother of Alhaji Aliko Dangote’s grandfather, further cementing his place in the nation’s commercial history.
Born on May 19, 1931, into the illustrious Dantata family, he was the son of Alhaji Alhassan Dantata, one of West Africa’s wealthiest merchants in the early 20th century. Over his lifetime, Aminu Dantata expanded the family’s business interests, diversifying into construction, manufacturing, banking, agriculture, and the oil and gas industry. His influence extended into real estate, petroleum, and finance, making him a key player in Nigeria’s economic development.
Beyond his business acumen, Dantata was deeply involved in public service. He held several important roles, including serving in the Kano State Government and participating as a member of the Constitution Drafting Committee responsible for Nigeria’s 1979 Constitution. He was a mentor to many entrepreneurs and civic leaders, earning widespread respect for his humility and commitment to community development.
Dantata’s philanthropic legacy is notable. Through his foundation and personal initiatives, he supported the construction of schools, mosques, health centers, orphanages, and various social welfare projects throughout Northern Nigeria.
His death was also acknowledged by Uba Tanko, Deputy National Treasurer of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA), who paid tribute to his enduring legacy in a social media post.
While initial reports varied regarding his place of death, with some sources mentioning Abuja, multiple confirmations indicate that Alhaji Aminu Dantata passed away in a hospital in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on Friday.
The family has announced that funeral arrangements (Janazah) will be communicated in due course.