Renowned Nigerian businessman and philanthropist, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, has been buried in the holy city of Medina, Saudi Arabia, following his passing in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Dantata, aged 94, was one of Nigeria’s most influential entrepreneurs and a respected elder in the business community. He was also the uncle of Africa’s wealthiest man, Aliko Dangote. He is survived by three wives, 21 children, and an astonishing 121 grandchildren.
In line with his personal wish to be buried in Medina, a city deeply revered in Islam and home to the Prophet Muhammad’s tomb, his remains were transported from the UAE after receiving clearance from Saudi authorities. Final rites were held at the Prophet’s Mosque, with his burial taking place at the historic Al-Baqi cemetery.
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The funeral drew the presence of high-ranking Nigerian officials, reflecting the deep national respect for the businessman. In a tribute, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu described Dantata’s death as a “monumental national loss,” lauding his lifelong dedication to Nigeria’s economic development, philanthropy, and service.
Dantata was widely admired for his charitable initiatives. In 2024, he donated ₦1.5 billion (approximately $972,000) to assist communities affected by severe flooding in Borno State—one of his many humanitarian efforts.
His entrepreneurial journey began in agriculture during the 1940s, trading in kola nuts and groundnuts. Over the decades, his business empire expanded to include interests in real estate, construction, and manufacturing. Despite his wealth, he chose to reside in the modest Koki area of Kano, staying true to his roots.
Coming from a lineage of commerce, Dantata was the son of Alhassan Dantata, once considered the wealthiest man in West Africa. As a child, Aminu was steeped in the family’s business culture. In an interview with Trust TV, he recalled how their father instilled a work ethic from an early age, encouraging his children to learn the value of money and trade before their teenage years.
He assumed leadership of the family business at just 17, taking over from his brother Ahmadu Dantata in Bichi during the 1950s. Throughout his life, he remained a key figure in Northern Nigeria’s economic and political spheres. Many political aspirants sought his counsel and blessings before elections, underscoring his enduring influence.
Though he lived his entire life in Kano, his final resting place in Medina fulfills a lifelong dream. A special prayer session was also held in Kano in his honour, marking the end of a remarkable life rooted in faith, commerce, and community service.
