Kano’s respected businessman and philanthropist, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, has died at the age of 94.
He passed away in the early hours of Saturday in Abuja, according to his Principal Private Secretary, Mustapha Junaid, who announced the news on Facebook.
“Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi rajiun. It is with 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,” Junaid wrote, adding that funeral details would be shared later.
Born on May 19, 1931, Dantata was one of Nigeria’s richest and most influential businessmen. He had investments in finance, real estate, and the oil and gas sector. He was the founder of Express Petroleum & Gas Company Ltd and one of the key figures behind the formation of Jaiz Bank, Nigeria’s first Islamic bank.
He also played a major role in public service and politics. He was a member of the Constitution Drafting Committee that wrote the 1979 Nigerian Constitution and was part of the National Movement, which became the National Party of Nigeria in 1978.
Dantata gave generously to education, youth empowerment and religion. He supported many in getting skills, starting businesses, and gaining access to education. He also served as the first chancellor of Al-Qalam University in Katsina.
