Iliyasu Abdullahi Bah
Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, the revered business leader and philanthropist, has died at the age of 94. His death was confirmed in a Facebook post by his Principal Private Secretary, Mustapha Abdullahi Junaid, on Saturday.
“With profound sadness, I announce the demise of our father, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata. May Allah grant him eternal rest in Aljannatu Firdaus and overlook his imperfections,” Junaid wrote.
Dantata, born May 19, 1931, was a cornerstone of Nigeria’s private sector, renowned for his ventures in finance, real estate, and petroleum most notably as founder of Express Petroleum & Gas Company Ltd. His enterprises transformed Kano’s economy and spurred growth across Northern Nigeria.
Beyond business, he championed youth empowerment, dedicating vast resources to education, vocational training, and poverty alleviation particularly for Northern youths. His philanthropic vision earned him widespread admiration.
The late industrialist was also the uncle of Aliko Dangote’s grandfather, linking him to another dynasty of African business leaders. Dantata’s legacy includes fostering collaboration between entrepreneurs and policymakers, cementing his role as a bridge builder in Nigeria’s socio economic landscape.
As tributes pour in, Nigerians recall Dantata’s humility, generosity, and unwavering commitment to national progress. His death marks a huge loss for an era, but his impact endures through the countless lives he uplifted.
