• Deceased in last published statement: ‘I no longer enjoy life, hope to leave in good faith’
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettim and former President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday led the long line of mourners in respect of the death of renowned business tycoon and philanthropist, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata.
In different condolence messages, eminent Nigerians extolled the virtues of the late businessman whose death in the early hours of yesterday in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates at the age of 94 was announced by his Private Secretary, Malam 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 said in a statement.
Dantata, a scion of the influential Dantata family, was widely respected for his significant contributions to commerce, Islamic scholarship, education and humanitarian causes.
He played a pivotal role in expanding the family’s business empire, inherited from his father, Alhaji Alhassan Dantata, one of West Africa’s wealthiest merchants in the early 20th Century.
Over the decades, Dantata diversified the family’s interests into construction, manufacturing, banking, agriculture, and oil and gas sectors.
He also held several public and private sector leadership roles, mentoring generations of entrepreneurs and civic leaders.
Beyond business, he was revered for his modesty, religious devotion and commitment to community development across Northern Nigeria.
Through his charitable foundation and personal philanthropy, Dantata supported the construction and operation of schools, mosques, health centres, orphanages and social welfare programmes.
Alhaji Aminu Dantata, a key figure in Northern Nigeria’s post-independence business evolution and a beacon of philanthropic service, is survived by family, numerous protégés, and a nation grateful for his service.
His family was said to have engaged the UAE authorities in discussions yesterday towards ensuring that the late business tycoon’s wish that he should be buried in Medina, Saudi Arabia is fulfilled.
In his condolence message yesterday, President Tinubu expressed profound sorrow over the passing of the elder statesman.
According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the President described Dantata’s passing as “a monumental national loss,” extolling the late nonagenarian’s towering legacy in both business and public service.
“Alhaji Dantata will be remembered for his industry, diligence, steadfastness and great commitment to national unity through his many business ventures and philanthropic activities that touched countless lives of Nigerians,” President Tinubu said.
The President also hailed Dantata’s philanthropic contributions, especially in education and healthcare, noting that his life of service to humanity left a profound impact on communities across the country.
He reiterated his personal relationship with the late elder statesman, recalling Dantata’s wise counsel and unwavering support as “deeply encouraging and beneficial.”
President Tinubu extended his condolences to the Dantata family, the government and people of Kano State, and all Nigerians who held the elder statesman in high esteem.
Shettima: He’s ‘an irreplaceable institution’
In a condolence message issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Vice President Shettima described the late Dantata as “an irreplaceable institution,”
He also hailed the late business tycoon as one of the “greatest titans in Nigeria’s philosophical history.”
The Vice President expressed deep sorrow and acknowledged the monumental role Dantata played in Nigeria’s economic and social evolution.
“We have not just lost a leader; we have lost an irreplaceable institution.
“In African tradition, when such an elderly person transitions, a vital chapter of our history departs with them.
“He was indeed among the great titans, a living bridge that connected us to our past,” the Vice President said.
Shettima described Dantata’s passing as the closing of a critical chapter in Nigeria’s journey of enterprise, faith and philanthropy, noting that his legacy would continue to inspire generations to come.
Shettima extended his heartfelt condolences to the entire Dantata family and prayed for strength and comfort as they navigate the loss.
He also prayed that Almighty Allah would grant the deceased Aljannatul Firdaus.
“May the Dantata family find the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him eternal rest,” he said.
Buhari mourns business titan, visionary leader
Former President Muhammadu Buhari mourned the passing of the renowned business leader and philanthropist, describing him as a visionary whose impact on Nigeria’s business and social landscape was profound.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Alhaji Garba Shehu, the former president said “he leaves behind a monumental legacy in philanthropy and entrepreneurship that reshaped the lives of people and business settings in the country and beyond.”
Buhari highlighted Dantata’s enduring contributions to Islamic education, health, business and rural development, stating that these efforts “will continue to inspire many people, both within and outside the country.”
The former president praised the late billionaire and humble businessman for “providing a long, stable leadership to one of the oldest and respected business families in the country.”
He said Dantata would be remembered for “an extraordinary legacy of leadership in business and philanthropy and an unmatched record in mentoring and nurturing generations of entrepreneurs, who themselves are today mentoring others and taking to philanthropy.”
According to Buhari, “His philanthropic contributions impacted millions of people across West Africa.”
“I will always cherish my interactions with him,” the former president added.
He prayed for strength for the bereaved family and others mourning the late industrialist, saying, “May Allah grant fortitude and strength to the members of the Dantata and Dangote families, the Kano Emirate Council, the government and people of the state and the country to whom the late Aminu Dantata meant a lot.”
“May Allah grant him Aljannatul Firdaus”, he said.
Dantata’s death saddens Speaker Abbas
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, expressed sadness over the demise of Kano born businessman and philanthropist, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, describing him as one of the most successful Nigerians.
Abbas said Alhaji Dantata was a trailblazer in the private sector, who ventured into various businesses across sub-sectors of the economy, including construction, manufacturing, banking, agriculture and oil and gas.
The Speaker praised the late Aminu Dantata for sustaining his success in different spheres of life for several decades despite economic realities.
In his condolence message signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, the Speaker described the late Dantata as a man who made indelible marks in business, religion and philanthropy.
“Indeed, we have lost a father and one of the most patriotic Nigerians who was not just a businessman of repute but also an employer of labour.
“Alhaji Aminu Dantata’s story is that of resilience, tenacity, diligence, consistency, and kindness.
“During his lifetime, he served as a beacon of hope for many.
“The fact that his business empire has existed for many decades is a testament to his steadfastness.
“Nigeria and Nigerians will not forget in a hurry Alhaji Aminu Dantata’s enterprising nature and his invaluable contributions to the growth and development of the Nigerian society.
“I am pained that such an illustrious and industrious personality has left us. But I am consoled by his achievements characterised by humility and modesty. “The Dantata story will remain with us for decades to come. He will be sorely missed, and his achievements will inspire generations to come,” Speaker Abbas said.
The Speaker commiserated the Dantata family and extended his condolences to the people and the government of Kano State over his death.
Barau mourns deceased elder statesman
Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, has also mourned the death of Alhaji Aminu Dantata, the elder statesman, industrialist, business mogul and philanthropist extraordinaire, who died yesterday at the age of 94.
Senator Barau, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, said the deceased contributed immensely to the overall development of Kano State, the North and, indeed, the entire country.
He said: “I mourn the passing of our father, an elder statesman, industrialist, business mogul and philanthropist, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, who died on Saturday.
“He spent his life worshipping Allah SWT and in the service of humanity.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, the Kano business community and the entire people of our state, Kano.
“Indeed, we have lost a father whose role in the development of our state and, indeed, the country cannot be over-emphasised.
“For decades, he was a leading figure in various business spheres: trading, construction, property, banking, manufacturing, oil and gas, etc.
“His highly cherished business acumen, exemplary philanthropy and interventions will continue to inspire us.
“He was a symbol of integrity.
“May Allah SWT grant Alhaji Aminu Dantata Aljannatul Firdausi. May Allah SWT give his immediate family and all of us the strength to bear this loss,” he said.
Dantata was pillar of commerce, says Ganduje
Former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and ex-Governor of Kano State, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, expressed deep sorrow over the passing of elder statesman and renowned business mogul, Alhaji Aminu Dantata.
In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu in Abuja yesterday, Ganduje described the late Dantata as a pillar of commerce, philanthropy and community development, whose legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
“Alhaji Aminu Dantata was a towering figure whose contributions to Nigeria’s economic landscape, particularly in the northern region, remain unmatched.
“His life was one of immense service not only to business but also to humanity. His philanthropic gestures and commitment to community upliftment defined his legacy,” the statement read.
Ganduje noted that the death of the business mogul was a monumental loss to Kano State and Nigeria as a whole, adding that his wisdom, humility and generosity would be dearly missed.
He extended condolences to the Dantata family, the Kano Emirate Council, the business community, and all those touched by the late icon’s life and work.
He then prayed that Allah (SWT) forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah Firdaus. He also prayed for strength and comfort for his family during this difficult time.
Sanwo-Olu sympathises with family, Dangote, Kano govt
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has mourned the passing of prominent businessman and philanthropist, Alhaji Aminu Dantata.
Governor Sanwo-Olu described the death of Dantata as a huge loss to Nigeria, particularly the Dantata family and the entire Kano State.
Sanwo-Olu said the late Dantata was a patriot, an accomplished businessman, elder statesman and philanthropist who made positive impacts and touched many lives directly and indirectly during his lifetime.
The Governor also sympathised with the entire Dantata family, especially the President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, over the demise of his uncle.
In the same vein, Governor Sanwo-Olu extended his heartfelt condolences to the Kano State Governor, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, and the entire people of Kano over the passing of their illustrious son.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, yesterday, the governor said: “On behalf of the government and the people of Lagos State, I mourn the passing of prominent businessman and the scion of the Dantata family, Alhaji Aminu Dantata.
“He was one of the successful businessmen and philanthropists in Nigeria who used their God-given wealth and influence to make positive impact on many generations of Nigerian families.
“I pray for the repose of the soul of the late Alhaji Aminu Dantata and pray that God grants the deceased family, friends and business associates the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”
Kano gov: Dantata was father figure, beacon of hope for generations
The Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Yusuf, has said the late Aminu Alhassan Dantata was not just an icon of business but had been father figure and beacon of hope to many generations.
“Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata was not just a successful businessman but a father figure and a beacon of hope for generations.
“His departure marks the end of an era for Kano’s business community and beyond.
“His unwavering commitment to the growth and development of Kano State and his tireless support for countless charitable causes will forever remain in our hearts,” Yusuf stated.
The governor stated this in his condolence message signed by his Spokesman, Mr. Sanusu Bature Dawakin Tofa, expressing deep sorrow over the passing of the renowned business mogul and elder statesman.
He said: “Dantata was widely respected for his humility, philanthropy and contribution to commerce and community development over several decades.”
Governor Yusuf extended his condolences to the immediate family of the deceased, the people of Kano, and Nigeria at large, describing Alhaji Dantata’s death as an immense loss to the state and the nation.
He hailed Alhaji Dantata as a towering figure whose lifetime of dedication, philanthropy, and investments greatly shaped the economic and social landscape of Kano.
Governor Yusuf prayed for Allah’s mercy upon the late elder statesman and urged the family to find strength in the remarkable legacy he left behind.
David Mark expresses sorrow
Former Senate President, Senator David Mark, expressed deep sorrow over the death of the renowned elder statesman, business magnate, and philanthropist, Alhaji Aminu Dantata.
In a condolence message to the government and people of Kano State, Senator Mark described the late Dantata as a man of impeccable character whose life was marked by selfless service, humility and unwavering commitment to humanity.
Mark paid tribute to Dantata’s vast contributions to Nigeria’s commercial, educational, and humanitarian landscape, noting that he was the distinguished son of Alhaji Alhassan Dantata—one of West Africa’s most prominent merchants in the early 20th Century.
Highlighting Dantata’s role in expanding the family’s business empire across multiple sectors including construction, agriculture, banking and oil and gas, the former Senate President also acknowledged his leadership in mentoring generations of entrepreneurs and civic leaders.
“Beyond his business accomplishments, Alhaji Aminu Dantata was revered for his modesty, religious devotion and steadfast dedication to community development,” Mark said, adding that his charitable efforts—especially in the areas of education, healthcare, and social welfare—impacted countless lives.
Senator Mark described Dantata’s life as one defined by humility, philanthropy, and lasting influence, praying that his legacy continues to inspire future generations.
Gov Namadi mourns Aminu Dantata
Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State yesterday expressed sadness over the passing of business magnate, Alhaji Aminu Dantata.
Namadi said this in a statement by his media aide, Hamisu Gumel, on Saturday in Dutse.
“On behalf of the government, Governor Umar Namadi extends his heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the deceased, the people and government of Kano State and the business community.
“Indeed, the whole of Nigeria has been affected by the loss of one of the nation’s most respected sons,” he said.
He described Dantata as a pillar of compassion, integrity, generosity, and an icon of industry, who devoted his life to nation building, economic growth and helping the needy.
“Through decades of business excellence and philanthropy, Dantata has left an indelible legacy that shaped lives across northern Nigeria and beyond.
“His wisdom, simplicity and unflinching faith inspired generations. He was not only a successful entrepreneur but a moral compass and elder, whose voice carried weight in moments of national reflection,” Namadi was quoted as saying in the statement.
Funeral prayer in absentia held for late Dantata in Kano
Funeral prayer in absentia (Salatul Ga’ib) was held on Saturday in Kano for the late business mogul, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, who died on Friday in Dubai at the age of 94.
The prayer, held at the Umar Bin Khattab Mosque in the Kano metropolis, was led by Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil, Chairman of the Kano State Council of Ulamas.
Thousands of sympathisers, including prominent personalities such as the Deputy President of the Senate, Sen. Barau Jibrin, attended the prayer to honour the memory of the deceased.
Speaking after the prayers, Khalil said Salatul Ga’ib is observed for Muslims who die outside their home country or in places where funeral rites cannot be performed.
He described the late Dantata as a devout Muslim, philanthropist, and community leader who lived a life of service and humility.
Dantata was a leading figure in Nigeria’s private sector, expanding his family’s legacy into a conglomerate with interests in construction, manufacturing, finance, agriculture, and oil and gas.
He was also renowned for his philanthropic works, having funded schools, hospitals, mosques, and welfare centres across Northern Nigeria through his foundation and personal initiatives.
He is expected to be buried in Medina, Saudi Arabia, in accordance with family arrangements.
