On June 28, 2025, Nigeria mourned the loss of Alhaji Aminu Dantata, a distinguished businessman and philanthropist, who passed away at 94. Born on May 19, 1931, in Kano, he was the son of the esteemed merchant Alhassan Dantata.
Aminu Dantata not only inherited his father’s entrepreneurial spirit but also expanded it, leaving an indelible mark on Nigeria’s economic and social landscape.
A Visionary Entrepreneur
At 29, following his brother’s demise in 1960, Aminu took the helm of the family business. Under his leadership, the enterprise evolved into the Dantata Organization, a conglomerate influencing various sectors of Nigeria’s economy.
His ventures included significant infrastructural projects like the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna and expansions at Ahmadu Bello University.
He also pioneered in the oil and gas industry with Express Petroleum & Gas Company Ltd and played a pivotal role in establishing Jaiz Bank, Nigeria’s first Islamic bank.
A Humble Philanthropist
