Nigerian Billionaire Aminu Dantata to Be Buried in Saudi Arabia

Nigerian Billionaire Aminu Dantata to Be Buried in Saudi Arabia

Nigerian Billionaire Aminu Dantata to Be Buried in Saudi Arabia, after passing away at the age of 94 in the United Arab Emirates. His burial fulfills a lifelong wish to be interred in the holy city revered in Islam.

Final Resting Place Approved by Saudi Authorities

Dantata’s body will be transferred from Abu Dhabi to Medina after the Saudi Arabian government approved his request to be buried there. The burial is expected to take place on Tuesday, following the completion of documentation by the Nigerian embassy and his family, according to Nigeria’s Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris.

A Life Rooted in Faith and Legacy

Born into a powerful and wealthy business dynasty, Aminu Dantata was known not only for his riches but for his devout Islamic faith. His final wish to be buried in Medina, where Prophet Muhammad lived and died, speaks volumes about his deep spiritual convictions.

National Leaders Pay Tribute

Following the news of his passing, President Bola Tinubu described Dantata’s death as a “monumental national loss.” In a heartfelt statement, Tinubu praised his decades of enterprise, philanthropy, and service to Nigeria. “He made sterling contributions to Nigeria’s growth and development,” the president said.

A Humble Man Despite Immense Wealth

Though a billionaire, Dantata lived modestly in Kano’s poorest neighborhoods, much like his father before him. This humble lifestyle earned him widespread respect across Nigeria. He was the uncle of Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man, and part of the powerful Dantata-Dangote lineage that shaped Nigeria’s economic landscape.

A Legacy of Philanthropy

Dantata’s philanthropic work extended to all corners of Nigeria. In 2023, he donated 1.5 billion naira (around $972,000) to aid victims of severe flooding in Borno State, one of the worst-hit areas in the country. His generosity in education, healthcare, and disaster relief was recognized both nationally and internationally.

Building an Empire from Groundnuts

Dantata’s business journey began in the 1940s, trading kola nuts and groundnuts. From those humble beginnings, he built a multi-sector empire that spanned agriculture, real estate, construction, and manufacturing. His early exposure to commerce shaped his disciplined work ethic and sharp business acumen.

Raised in a Business-Oriented Family

The Dantata family has long been associated with commerce. Aminu’s father, Alhassan Dantata, was once the richest man in West Africa. Aminu continued the legacy, taking over the family business in Bichi at just 17 years old, after the death of his elder brother Ahmadu Dantata.

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Early Exposure to Trade and Islam

Dantata was first educated in Islamic studies before attending secondary school built by his father in Kano. He recalled in an interview with Trust TV that, in their family, children began learning business as early as five years old. “Our father used school holidays to teach us how to earn money,” he once said.

Political and Spiritual Influence

Aminu Dantata’s influence extended beyond business. He was a respected elder statesman, and many politicians sought his blessing ahead of elections. A viral video from 2023 shows President Tinubu bowing to greet him, a sign of the reverence he commanded in political circles.

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Dignitaries Attend His Final Journey

As preparations for his burial in Medina unfold, two Nigerian state governors and four federal ministers have traveled to Saudi Arabia to attend the funeral. Back home, a special prayer was held in Kano, where Dantata spent most of his life.

A Life Remembered for Humility and Service

Aminu Dantata’s passing marks the end of an era. While he leaves behind three wives, 21 children, and 121 grandchildren, his true legacy lies in the countless lives he touched through his business, generosity, and unwavering devotion to faith. His burial in Medina is a fitting conclusion to a life of service, success and spirituality.

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