Billionaire Businessman Aminu Dantata Is Dead

Aminu Dantata, a billionaire businessman and philanthropist from Kano, has died at the age of 94.

According to family members, Aminu Dantata passed away in the early hours of Saturday in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

His grandchildren, Sanusi and Nanah, confirmed the news on social media, posting tributes on Facebook and X.

Mustapha Junaid, his Principal Private Secretary, also confirmed the news through a heartfelt message on his Facebook page.

Junaid wrote, “Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi rajiun. Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi rajiun. It is with 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.”

“The Janazah (funeral) details will be shared later insha Allah,” the post further read.

Aminu Dantata was the last surviving child of the legendary Alhassan Dantata.

Over the years, he built a reputation for his wide-ranging business ventures and generous donations. Just last year, he donated N1.5 billion to help flood victims in Borno State.

His business portfolio stretched across agriculture, real estate, construction, and manufacturing. He was also the uncle of Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote.

Born in 1931 in Kano, Dantata began his career at 18, working as a produce buyer for the family business, Alhassan Dantata and Sons Limited. He would eventually rise to become the company’s Chairman and Managing Director.

His influence extended beyond business. In 1962, he joined the Steering Committee of the Nigerian Industrial Development Bank and later became one of its directors.

In 1966, he was elected to the Northern House of Assembly, and by 1967, he was appointed Commissioner in the Kano State Government, serving until 1973.

Dantata also played a role in national development. He was part of the Assembly Drafting Committee for Nigeria’s 1979 constitution.

Over the years, he received several honorary degrees in recognition of his service to business and society. He also served as Chancellor of Al-Qalam University.

Aminu Dantata leaves behind a legacy of leadership, philanthropy, and deep commitment to Nigeria’s growth.

KanyiDaily recalls that Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, a former governor of Kwara State and one-time senator, also died on Wednesday.