By Yaw Opoku Amoako
Aminu Dantata, one of Nigeria’s wealthiest and most influential businessmen, has passed away at the age of 94 in the United Arab Emirates. His death marks the end of an era for Nigeria’s business and philanthropic community.
Dantata, who was the uncle of Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, left behind an immense legacy of entrepreneurship and generosity. He was laid to rest in the holy city of Medina, Saudi Arabia, in accordance with his wishes, after his body was transferred from Abu Dhabi.
The Nigerian government paid tribute to the business mogul by participating in funeral prayers at the Holy Prophet Mosque, before his body was interred at the Al-Baqi Cemetery, a site of great significance for Muslims around the world.
Dantata’s death has been described by Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, as a “monumental national loss.” The President highlighted his significant contributions to Nigeria’s development over decades, particularly in the realms of agriculture, construction, real estate, and manufacturing.
“His sterling contributions to Nigeria’s growth and development, along with his unwavering philanthropic spirit, will be remembered for generations to come,” said President Tinubu in a statement.
Despite his immense wealth, Dantata remained deeply connected to his roots, living in one of the poorest areas of Kano, the same neighborhood where he was born and raised. This humility and commitment to his community were key aspects of his character.
Dantata made his initial fortune in agriculture, starting by trading kola nuts and groundnuts in the 1940s, following in the footsteps of his father, Alhassan Dantata, who was once considered the wealthiest man in West Africa. Over the years, Dantata expanded his business interests to include real estate, construction, and manufacturing, making significant strides in Nigeria鈥檚 economic landscape.
Philanthropy was at the heart of his work, and he was known for his dedication to improving the lives of Nigerians. In 2024, he donated 1.5 billion naira (approximately $972,000) to assist victims of flooding in Borno state, demonstrating his commitment to the welfare of others.
He also had a powerful influence on Nigerian politics, with politicians often seeking his blessing ahead of elections. One particularly viral moment came in 2023 when President Tinubu was seen bowing to greet Dantata before the elections.
Dantata was born into a family of entrepreneurs, and from a young age, he was taught the value of business. His father instilled in him the importance of earning money early, an ethos Dantata continued throughout his life. He began his business career at just 17, taking over the family business in Bichi after his brother Ahmadu Dantata鈥檚 passing.
His personal journey from a young boy learning to earn money to becoming one of Nigeria’s wealthiest businessmen is an inspiring story of perseverance, family, and legacy.
His influence will continue to be felt in both Nigeria and beyond, as his contributions to both business and charity are remembered.