Tributes flow as renowned business mogul Aminu Dantata passes away at 94
Elder statesman and influential businessman Aminu Dantata has died at the age of 94. He passed away in the early hours of Saturday in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, with family sources confirming the unfortunate news. Dantata’s grandchildren, Sanusi and Nanah, took to social media platforms Facebook and X to announce his death.
Mr. Dantata was the last surviving child of the notable Alhassan Dantata and was widely respected for his extensive business acumen and philanthropic contributions. In a notable act of generosity, he donated N1.5 billion last September to assist victims of flooding in Borno state.
The family is expected to announce funeral arrangements for the late businessman shortly. Dantata’s business ventures spanned several sectors, including agriculture, real estate, construction, and manufacturing. He was also known as the uncle of Africa’s wealthiest individual, Aliko Dangote.
Born in Kano in 1931, Dantata began his business career at just 18 years old as a produce buyer for Alhassan Dantata and Sons Limited, eventually rising to the positions of Chairman and Managing Director.
His influence extended beyond his company when, in 1962, he became a member of the Steering Committee of the Nigeria Industrial Development Bank Limited and later served as one of its directors.
Over the years, Dantata led numerous trade missions across the globe and was elected to the Northern House of Assembly in 1966. The following year, he was appointed as Commissioner in the Kano State Government, serving from 1967 to 1973. Dantata also played a role in the Assembly Drafting Committee for the 1979 Constitution, which laid the groundwork for Nigeria’s second republic.
Dantata was honored with several honorary degrees from various universities, highlighting his contributions to both the business sector and wider community. His passing is a significant loss to many, and his legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations.
Source: Premium Times
