Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course.
Widely respected as one of Nigeria’s leading industrialists, Mr. Dantata was the last surviving child of Alhassan Dantata, the legendary merchant credited with laying the foundation of one of West Africa’s most influential trading families. Over decades, Aminu Dantata expanded the family’s legacy across agriculture, real estate, construction, and manufacturing. He was also an uncle to Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man.
Mr. Dantata’s philanthropy was equally well known. In September 2023, he donated ₦1.5 billion to support victims of severe flooding in Borno State, underscoring his lifelong commitment to social causes and humanitarian relief.
Born in Kano in 1931, Aminu Dantata began his business career at just 18, working as a produce buyer for the family firm, Alhassan Dantata and Sons Limited. Over time, he rose to become its Chairman and Managing Director, steering it through periods of remarkable growth and diversification.
His leadership extended beyond business. In 1962, he joined the Steering Committee of the Nigeria Industrial Development Bank Limited, later serving as one of its directors. He also led trade missions around the world, championing Nigerian commerce on the global stage.
In public service, Mr. Dantata was elected to the Northern House of Assembly in 1966. He went on to serve as a Commissioner in the Kano State Government from 1967 to 1973. He was also a member of the Assembly Drafting Committee responsible for the 1979 Constitution that ushered in Nigeria’s Second Republic.
He was the Chancellor of Al-Qalam University and received multiple honorary degrees in recognition of his vast contributions to business, education, and national development.
Aminu Dantata’s passing marks the end of an era for one of Nigeria’s most storied entrepreneurial dynasties, leaving behind a legacy of enterprise, philanthropy, and public service that will be remembered for generations.