The Traffic

OBITUARY: Aminu Dantata, Kano billionaire businessman who owned lands ‘all over the world’ 

Aminu Dantata, a renowned Nigerian businessman and philanthropist, passed away on June 28, 2025, at the age of 94. He died in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, after a brief illness. 

By Rhalialt Arhuoizah 

Dantata was a respected industrialist and key player in Nigeria's private sector growth, with significant investments in various sectors, including :
- *Business Ventures*:
    - Founder of Express Petroleum & Gas Company Ltd
    - Played a major role in establishing Jaiz Bank, Nigeria's first non-interest bank
    - Investments in construction, oil and gas, banking, real estate, and agriculture
- *Philanthropy*:
    - Construction of schools, mosques, orphanages, and a haemodialysis centre at the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital
    - Sponsor of Islamic education in Northern Nigeria
    - Supported education emancipation, skills acquisition, and economic empowerment of youths
- *Legacy*:
    - Described as a "monumental national loss" by the Northern Governors' Forum
    - Tributes poured in from prominent Nigerians, including Gombe State Governor Inuwa Yahaya
    - Remembered for his life of service, integrity, and generosity

Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family in due course .