The Northern States Governors’ Forum has expressed profound sorrow at the passing of Alhaji Aminu Dantata, a distinguished industrialist and philanthropist from Kano, who died at the age of 94. The news was confirmed by Muhammadu Yahaya, Governor of Gombe State and current Chairman of the Forum, who issued a condolence statement on behalf of all Northern governors.
In his address, Yahaya, through his Director-General of Press Affairs, Ismaila Misilli, praised Dantata’s extraordinary contributions to the private sector, describing him as “one of Africa’s wealthiest and most respected private sector figures.” Yahaya’s message underscored the gravity of the loss, stating, “It is with profound sorrow and a deep sense of national loss that I, on behalf of the Government and people of Gombe State as well as the Northern States Governors’ Forum, mourn the passing of elder statesman and one of Africa’s most accomplished businessmen and philanthropists, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata. His demise marks the end of a remarkable era, an era defined by visionary enterprise, uncommon generosity, rare humility and integrity.”
The Governor recalled Dantata’s significant impact on Nigeria’s economic growth and his unwavering commitment to humanitarian causes. Yahaya added, “Alhaji Aminu Dantata’s contributions to the socio-economic transformation of Northern Nigeria and the country at large are both monumental and enduring. We have indeed lost a pillar of support, a source of wisdom, and a true elder statesman.”
He concluded by extending condolences to the Dantata family, the people of Kano State, and the entire nation, praying for Allah’s mercy and for Dantata to be granted Aljannatul Firdaus.