Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, a celebrated Nigerian business tycoon and respected elder statesman, has died at the age of 94. He passed away in the early hours of Saturday, June 28, 2025, in the United Arab Emirates, according to statements from his family and close associates.
Dantata, the last surviving son of the legendary merchant Alhassan Dantata and uncle to Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, was a towering figure in Nigeria’s economic landscape.
Throughout his distinguished career, he expanded the Dantata family’s legacy into sectors such as construction, manufacturing, banking, agriculture, and oil and gas, playing a pivotal role in Nigeria’s economic growth.
In addition to his business accomplishments, Aminu Dantata was deeply admired for his philanthropy and dedication to community development.
His charitable initiatives and personal generosity supported educational institutions, mosques, healthcare centers, orphanages, and widows, particularly across northern Nigeria.
He was a founder of Express Petroleum & Gas Company Ltd and Jaiz Bank, and also served in public office as a commissioner in the Kano State Government and as a member of the Northern House of Assembly.
Condolences have poured in from across the country, with national leaders and prominent figures describing his passing as an immense loss to Nigeria. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the Oluwo of Iwo, and others have lauded his integrity, business leadership, and unwavering commitment to national unity and progress.
Funeral (Janazah) arrangements will be communicated by the family in due course.
