Nigerians should learn from Dantata’s humanitarian way of life — Tinubu

By Kunle Sanni –

President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to the late business icon, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, describing him as a beacon of philanthropy whose life should serve as a model for all Nigerians.

In a condolence message delivered in Kano on Thursday by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu said the death of the 94-year-old elder statesman was a profound loss not only to his family but also to Nigeria and the wider Muslim world.

“I am here at the behest of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to express his deep condolences to the Dantata family,” Shettima said.

“The late Aminu Dantata was a God-fearing man who devoted his life to serving humanity. He supported countless people not only in Nigeria but globally.”

President Tinubu praised Dantata’s lifelong commitment to charity and community service, calling on Nigerians to emulate his humility, compassion, and devotion to peace. “His was a life of impact and selflessness, and we should celebrate the legacy he left behind,” he said.

The Vice President was accompanied by several top government officials, including Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President; Alhaji Umar Modibo, Special Adviser on General Duties; former Attorney-General Mohammed Bello Adoke (SAN); and former Kogi State Governor, Captain Idris Wada.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Alhaji Munzali Dantata, younger brother of the deceased, expressed appreciation to the President and Vice President for the visit. He revealed that Aminu Dantata had requested to be buried in Medina, Saudi Arabia—a wish honored by the Saudi authorities.

Aminu Dantata died in Dubai on June 28, 2025, and was buried on July 1 in Medina. He is survived by three wives, 21 children, and over 100 grandchildren. He was also the uncle of Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote.