Nigerian Business Mogul Aminu Dantata Dies at 94
Nigeria has lost one of its most respected and influential business icons, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, who died at the age of 94. The news of his passing was confirmed on Saturday through a statement posted on Facebook by his Principal Private Secretary, Mustapha Abdullahi Junaid.
“It is with heavy heart that I announce the passing of our beloved father, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata,” Junaid wrote. “May Allah grant him Jannatul Firdaus and forgive his shortcomings. The Janazah details will be shared later, insha Allah.”
Aminu Dantata was a towering figure in Nigeria’s economic history, widely regarded as a pillar of Northern Nigeria’s business community. He was the founder of Express Petroleum & Gas Company Ltd, a major player in the country’s energy sector. His involvement in commerce began in the early years of Nigeria’s independence, following in the footsteps of the legendary Dantata family legacy built on trade, construction, and philanthropy.
Born in 1931 in Kano, Alhaji Aminu Dantata was part of the prestigious Dantata family, known for their role in shaping business and industry in Nigeria. His brother, Alhassan Dantata, was the grandfather of Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote. This connection placed Aminu Dantata in the lineage of a family that has played a key role in West Africa’s business and industrial development for over a century.
Throughout his life, Aminu Dantata was deeply involved in building several businesses across multiple sectors, including petroleum, construction, real estate, and agriculture. Under his leadership, Express Petroleum became one of Nigeria’s reputable indigenous oil firms. He also held several board positions and served as a mentor to many younger entrepreneurs, including those within the Dangote Group.
Beyond business, Dantata was known for his philanthropy and devotion to Islam. He contributed generously to community development, education, and religious causes. Many Nigerians remember him for his modesty, wisdom, and calm approach to leadership.
Tributes have continued to pour in from business leaders, public officials, and citizens across the country, describing him as a “silent achiever” and “a man of legacy.” His death marks the end of an era for many who admired his lifelong commitment to enterprise and community.
Funeral arrangements (Janazah) are expected to be announced soon, with many expected to attend from across Nigeria and beyond to pay their final respects. As the country mourns, Aminu Dantata’s legacy as a giant of industry and a symbol of integrity remains deeply etched in the nation’s memory.
