Aminu Dantata was a Nigerian businessman, philanthropist, and elder statesman. He was born on May 19, 1931, in Kano, Nigeria, into the wealthy Dantata family. His father, Alhassan Dantata, was one of the richest men in West Africa during the colonial era.

Who is Aminu Dantata?

Aminu began working in his family business at a young age. After the death of his elder brother, he became the head of Alhassan Dantata & Sons in 1960. Under his leadership, the company expanded into various sectors including construction, petroleum, banking, and manufacturing.

He was also involved in politics and served as a commissioner in Kano State and later played a role in national development and constitutional reforms.

Aminu Dantata Net Worth

Aminu Dantata was one of Nigeria’s wealthiest men. His net worth has been estimated at around $1 billion, though some reports suggest it could be higher due to his wide investments in oil, banking, agriculture, and manufacturing. He owned Express Petroleum & Gas, co-founded Jaiz Bank, and led Alhassan Dantata & Sons Ltd.

Aminu Dantata Family Tree

The Dantata family is one of the most influential in Nigeria. Below is a simplified version of the family tree:

• Alhassan Dantata (Father)
  ├── Ahmadu Dantata
  ├── Sanusi Dantata (grandfather of Aliko Dangote)
  ├── Aminu Dantata (1931–2025)
  │ ├── Tajudeen Dantata
  │ ├── Abubakar Saddiq Dantata
  │ ├── Hassan Dantata
  │ ├── Bashir Dantata
  │ └── Several daughters
  └── Other siblings

Alhassan Dantata

Alhassan Dantata (1877–1955) was a famous West African merchant from Kano, Nigeria. He made his fortune trading kola nuts, groundnuts, and other goods across West Africa. He was considered the richest man in West Africa at the time of his death. His business empire laid the foundation for the wealth and influence of the Dantata family today.

Aminu Dantata Son

Aminu Dantata had several sons who have taken on leadership roles in the family businesses. Some of his well-known sons include:

• Tajudeen Dantata – businessman

• Abubakar Saddiq Dantata

• Hassan Dantata

• Bashir Dantata

These sons have continued the family’s legacy in commerce, finance, and philanthropy.

Aminu Dantata Wife

Aminu Dantata was married to Rabi Dantata, who passed away before him. She was a key figure in supporting family and religious values. Together, they raised a large family and were known for their generosity and commitment to Islamic and community causes.

Who is Dantata?

“Dantata” refers to the influential business family from Kano, Nigeria, founded by Alhassan Dantata. The name is now associated with wealth, philanthropy, and commerce in Nigeria. Members of the Dantata family include notable figures such as Aminu Dantata and Aliko Dangote, who is a great-grandson of Alhassan Dantata.

Aminu Dantata Daughters

Aminu Dantata had several daughters, though they are less publicly known than his sons. His daughters have also contributed to the family legacy through involvement in philanthropy, education, and community development. One known granddaughter, Batulu Alhassan Baba Ahmad Dantata, passed away in 2021 at age 40.

Alhassan Dantata Children

Alhassan Dantata had many children, some of the most prominent include:

• Ahmadu Dantata

• Sanusi Dantata – father of Aliko Dangote’s mother

• Aminu Dantata

• Mamuda, Mudi, Abdullahi, Amina, Bara’atu, Jamilu

Nigerian Business Icon Aminu Dantata Dies at 94 in Abu Dhabi

ABU DHABI – Renowned elder statesman and respected business tycoon Aminu Dantata has passed away at the age of 94.

According to family sources, Mr Dantata died in the early hours of Saturday in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. His death was confirmed by his grandchildren, Sanusi and Nanah, through emotional posts on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).

A Legacy Rooted in History and Philanthropy

Aminu Dantata was the last surviving child of the legendary merchant Alhassan Dantata, a pioneer of commerce in Northern Nigeria. He carried forward his father’s legacy, making remarkable strides in business, humanitarian work, and community leadership.

He was uncle to Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, and played a pivotal role in shaping Northern Nigeria’s economic structure.

Business Ventures

Mr Dantata’s business interests covered:

• Agriculture

• Real Estate

• Construction

• Manufacturing

He was the Chairman and Managing Director of Alhassan Dantata and Sons Limited, where he began his career at the young age of 18 as a produce buyer.

Contributions to Society

Mr Dantata was known for his philanthropy. In September 2024, he donated ₦1.5 billion to support flood victims in Borno State, showing his deep compassion and commitment to helping others.

He also served as the Chancellor of Al-Qalam University, contributing to the growth of education in Nigeria.

Funeral Plans

Family sources have shared that funeral arrangements for the late businessman will be announced soon.

A Nation Mourns

Mr Dantata’s passing marks the end of an era. He will be remembered not just as a successful entrepreneur, but also as a man who used his influence and wealth to uplift others.