
Kano, Nigeria — June 28, 2025 —
One of Nigeria’s most respected business magnates and philanthropists, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, has passed away at the age of 94.
His death was officially confirmed in the early hours of Saturday by his Principal Private Secretary, Mustapha Abdullahi Junaid, in a solemn statement shared with the media.
“Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi rajiun. Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi rajiun. It is with a 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. The Janazah details will be shared later, insha Allah,” Junaid stated.
Alhaji Dantata, a towering figure in Nigeria’s economic development, was the founder of Express Petroleum & Gas Company Limited and played a pivotal role in the establishment of Jaiz Bank, the country’s first Islamic, non-interest financial institution.
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Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, Dantata was widely regarded for his philanthropic contributions and mentorship of prominent business figures, including his nephew, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man.

Tributes have continued to pour in from across Nigeria and beyond, with many describing him as a national asset, a moral compass in business, and a trailblazer who helped shape the country’s modern commercial landscape.
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Funeral arrangements (Janazah) will be announced in due course.