Alhaji Aminu Dantata, a renowned Nigerian businessman and philanthropist, passed away on June 28, 2025, at the age of 94, just 43 days after celebrating his birthday.
His death was confirmed by his Principal Private Secretary, Mustapha Junaid, who announced the news on Facebook, saying, “Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi rajiun.
” 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.”
Born on May 19, 1931, in Kano State, Dantata was part of a storied family with a rich history in commerce and enterprise.
His father, Alhassan Dantata, was a legendary merchant who laid the foundation for the family’s business empire.
Aminu Dantata began his education at Dala Primary School in 1938 and later joined the family business, Alhassan Dantata & Sons, in 1948.
He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the head of the company in 1960 after his brother’s passing.
Under Dantata’s leadership, the Dantata business empire expanded across various industries, including:
construction among others .
He founded Express Petroleum & Gas Company Ltd, a significant player in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
Dantata played a key role in establishing Jaiz Bank, Nigeria’s first non-interest banking institution.
His companies acquired stakes in prominent firms like Mentholatum, SCOA, and Raleigh Industries.
Dantata was also widely recognised for his philanthropic efforts, particularly through the Kano State Foundation, which supported education and entrepreneurship.
He was known for his humility and deep religiosity, and his legacy extends beyond his business accomplishments to the lives he touched and the opportunities he created.
Dantata’s impact on Nigeria’s business landscape and philanthropic community is immeasurable.
He is remembered as a pillar of community development and a benefactor whose legacy will endure for generations.
Many have paid tribute to his remarkable life, describing him as a symbol of immense wealth and a beacon of generational prosperity ¹
Details of Dantata’s Janazah (funeral) would be announced shortly, according to Islamic traditions. The nation mourns the loss of this extraordinary figure, and preparations for his funeral are underway.
