KANO, Nigeria — June 28, 2025 — Renowned Kano businessman, philanthropist, and patriarch of one of Nigeria’s most prominent business families, Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, has passed away at the age of 94.
His death was confirmed in the early hours of Saturday by his Principal Private Secretary, Mustapha Abdullahi Junaid, who expressed deep sorrow in a statement:
“Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi rajiun. Innalillahi wa inna ilaihi rajiun. It is with 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.”
Alhaji Aminu Dantata was a towering figure in Nigeria’s business landscape. He was the founder of Express Petroleum & Gas Company Ltd and was instrumental in the establishment of Jaiz Bank, Nigeria’s pioneering non-interest (Islamic) bank.
A deeply respected elder statesman and philanthropist, Dantata was widely admired for his business acumen, humility, and commitment to community development. He was also the uncle of Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote.
Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course.
