Alhaji Aminu Dantata: A Titan of Business and Philanthropy Passes at 94
Kano bids farewell to one of its most revered figures, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, who passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at the age of 94. A towering personality in Nigerian commerce and an exemplary philanthropist, Alhaji Dantata leaves behind a legacy of entrepreneurial prowess and selfless service.
Early Life and The Foundations of a Dynasty
Born on May 19, 1931, in Kano, Alhaji Aminu Dantata was the 15th of 17 children of the legendary merchant Alhassan Dantata, whose business acumen laid the groundwork for one of Nigeria's most influential families. Tracing their roots to Katsina before settling in Kano, the Dantata family's lineage is steeped in trade and enterprise. Young Aminu received his early education at Dala Primary School from 1938 to 1945, supplementing it with home studies in a private school established by his visionary father in 1949. His journey into the world of business began early, as he joined the family firm, Alhassan Dantata & Sons, in 1948 as a keen produce buyer.
A Business Empire Built on Vision and Diversification
Alhaji Aminu Dantata's leadership transformed the family business into a diversified powerhouse. He rose through the ranks, becoming the Sokoto district manager for Alhassan Dantata & Sons in 1955. By 1960, he had assumed executive leadership of the firm, which originally focused on commodities like groundnuts and kolanuts. Under his astute guidance, the Dantata business empire expanded exponentially, venturing into construction, petroleum, finance, and manufacturing.
He was the visionary founder of Express Petroleum & Gas Company Ltd and played a pivotal role in the establishment of Jaiz Bank, a groundbreaking institution as Nigeria's first non-interest banking service. His strategic investments during the 1970s indigenization era included significant holdings in companies such as Mentholatum, SCOA, Funtua Cotton Seed Crushing Company, and Raleigh Industries. His influence extended to national development, serving as one of the pioneer board members of the Nigerian Industrial Development Bank (now Bank of Industry) in 1964, and as the Life Patron of the Nigeria Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture.
A Life of Public Service and Profound Philanthropy
Beyond his formidable business achievements, Alhaji Aminu Dantata dedicated a significant part of his life to public service and an extraordinary commitment to philanthropy. He was elected a member of the Northern House of Assembly in 1966. From 1967 to 1973, he served with distinction as the Kano State Commissioner for Planning and Development (later Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, and Industry) under Governor Audu Bako. He also contributed to Nigeria's political landscape as a member of the National Movement in 1978, which later became the National Party of Nigeria (NPN), and served on the Assembly Drafting Committee for the 1979 constitution.
Alhaji Aminu Dantata's name is synonymous with generosity. Through his charitable foundation and personal donations, he championed numerous causes, supporting the construction and operation of schools, mosques, health centers, orphanages, and various social welfare programs. Notably, he donated the Alhassan Dantata Haemodyalysis Center to Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital. His dedication to education was further exemplified by his role as the first Chancellor of Al-Qalam University, Katsina, and his receipt of honorary degrees from prestigious institutions like Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and Bayero University, Kano. He is also widely acknowledged for providing the initial capital that helped his relative, Aliko Dangote, embark on his journey to become one of Africa's most successful businessmen.
Alhaji Aminu Dantata's passing marks the end of an era, but his enduring legacy as a business magnate, a public servant, and a compassionate philanthropist will continue to inspire generations.
