Aminu Dantata, a distinguished businessman and philanthropist from Kano, has died at the age of 94. His passing was announced on Saturday, June 28, by his private secretary, Mustapha Abdullahi-Junaid.
“Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi raji’un. 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. Details of the Janazah will be shared later, in sha Allah,” Junaid stated.
The elder statesman passed away in the early hours of Saturday in Abuja.
Widely respected for his contributions to commerce, Islamic scholarship, education, and humanitarian efforts, Aminu Dantata played a pivotal role in expanding the family’s business empire, originally founded by his father, Alhassan Dantata—one of West Africa’s wealthiest merchants in the early 20th century.
Over the years, he diversified the family’s interests into sectors including construction, manufacturing, banking, agriculture, and oil and gas. He also held numerous leadership roles across public and private sectors, mentoring generations of entrepreneurs and civic leaders.
Born on May 19, 1931, Dantata was known for his ventures in real estate, petroleum, and finance. He also served in the Kano State Government and was a member of the Constitution Drafting Committee that prepared Nigeria’s 1979 Constitution.
