Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed sadness over the passing of Aminu Dantata, a revered patriarch of industry, philanthropy, and public virtue, whose death he described as “the end of an era” and “the loss of a significant guardian of the nation’s moral and entrepreneurial heritage.”
Dantata, who died on Saturday, was more than just a towering corporate giant; he was largely recognised as his generation’s profound conscience.
His life was defined by quiet charity, principled leadership, and an unrelenting devotion to societal upliftment, leaving an everlasting imprint on Nigeria’s soul.
On Saturday, Atiku responded to the news via his X (previously Twitter) account, describing the late Dantata as a great loss for the nation.
“The passing of Alhaji Aminu Dantata, a patriarch of industry, philanthropy, and public virtue, marks the end of an era and the loss of one of the last great custodians of Nigeria’s moral and entrepreneurial heritage.
“Alhaji Dantata was not merely a business icon; he was a conscience of his generation. Through quiet philanthropy, principled leadership, and an unshakeable commitment to the upliftment of society, he etched his name into the soul of our nation.
“His humility in affluence, wisdom in counsel, and generosity in service made him a pillar of not just Kano but of Nigeria’s moral and developmental landscape,” Atiku said.
”Dantata’s humility in his immense affluence, his invaluable wisdom in counsel, and his boundless generosity in service solidified his position as a pillar of not only Kano State but also Nigeria’s broader moral and developmental landscape.
“As the nation bids farewell to this titan of integrity and compassion, heartfelt condolences are extended to the Dantata family, the Kano Emirate Council, and the people of Nigeria.
“Prayers are offered for Almighty Allah to forgive his shortcomings, multiply his rewards, and grant him eternal repose in Aljannatul Firdaus,” Atiku added.