Eminent Kano-born businessman and philanthropist, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, has passed away at the age of 94.
According to The PUNCH, the sad news of his demise was announced on Saturday, June 28, 2025, by his Principal Private Secretary, Mustapha Abdullahi Junaid, in a post on Facebook.
“With a heart full of grief, I announce the passing of our respected father, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata,” Junaid wrote. “May Allah, in His infinite mercy, grant him Jannatul Firdaus and forgive his shortcomings. Details of the Janazah will be communicated later, in sha Allah.”
Until his death, Dantata was regarded as one of the most prominent figures in Nigeria’s business landscape. He was the founder of Express Petroleum & Gas Company Limited and a major player in the oil and gas sector.
A revered figure in Northern Nigeria and beyond, Dantata hailed from the influential Dantata family and was an uncle to the grandfather of Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote.
Throughout his life, he was known not only for his entrepreneurial acumen but also for his generous philanthropic contributions, which spanned education, health, and community development.
Tributes have begun pouring in from various quarters, with many describing him as a pillar of support for both the business community and the less privileged.
Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course.