Nigeria is mourning the loss of one of its most respected elder statesmen and philanthropists, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, who passed away in the early hours of Saturday, June 28, 2025. He was 94 years old.
Dantata, a revered figure in the business and philanthropic circles, had just celebrated his 94th birthday on May 19. His death was announced by Bashir Ahmad, a Kano-based politician and former media aide to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari.
In a heartfelt post on social media, Ahmad described Dantata as “one of Kano’s greatest sons” and “a true elder statesman whose impact reached far beyond the borders of his native city.”
Born into the prominent Dantata family, Aminu was the son of Alhaji Alhassan Dantata, one of the most influential merchants in Northern Nigeria’s history. Fondly remembered as “Alhassan Dogo” due to his height, the elder Dantata laid the foundation for a family legacy rooted in commerce and philanthropy, a legacy which Aminu proudly carried forward.
Throughout his life, Aminu Dantata was instrumental in founding and co-founding several major companies across various sectors. His business interests spanned petroleum, banking, and infrastructure, with notable establishments like Jaiz Bank and Express Petroleum & Gas Company Ltd linked to his name.
But beyond business, he was widely admired for his charitable spirit and commitment to social development.
He was also actively involved in Nigeria’s political evolution. As a member of the National Movement, which later transformed into the defunct National Party of Nigeria (NPN), Dantata played a behind-the-scenes role in shaping the country’s political direction during its Second Republic.
The announcement of his death triggered a wave of grief on social media, where tributes continue to pour in from Nigerians across the country. Many praised him not just for his wealth or business achievements, but for his humility, integrity, and unwavering support for community development.
Aminu Dantata is expected to be buried in accordance with Islamic rites.