Nigeria’s political and business elite united in grief on Saturday, paying glowing tributes to the late industrialist and philanthropist Alhaji Aminu Dantata, whose death at 94 has left a gaping void in the nation’s economic and social fabric.
Presidential Homage
President Bola Tinubu led the outpouring of condolences, describing Dantata’s passing as “a monumental national loss.” In a statement by spokesman Bayo Onanuga, the President recalled the billionaire’s “industry, diligence, and great commitment to national unity,” noting how his business ventures and philanthropy “touched countless lives of Nigerians.”
Tinubu particularly cherished Dantata’s “deeply encouraging and beneficial” counsel during their interactions.
“With the death of Alhaji Dantata today, we lost a prominent business mogul, patriot, and elder statesman who contributed significantly to the growth and development of our nation.“
Alhaji Dantata will be remembered for his industry, diligence, steadfastness, and great commitment to national unity through his many business ventures and philanthropic activities that touched countless lives of Nigerians,” the president said.
President Tinubu expressed his condolences to the Dantata family, as well as the Government and residents of Kano State, following the passing of the nation’s distinguished son.
Shettima’s Historical Perspective
Vice President Kashim Shettima described the loss in epochal terms, calling Dantata “an irreplaceable institution” and “a living bridge that connected us to our past.” In his tribute delivered by aide Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima observed: “In African tradition, when such an elderly person transitions, a vital chapter of our history departs with them.”
The VP prayed for divine mercy on the departed soul while urging the family to bear the loss with fortitude.
Atiku’s Call for Immortalization
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, through spokesman Paul Ibe, emphasized Dantata’s continental significance, noting his death diminishes “not only Kano State but the Nigerian business community and Africa at large.”
Atiku marveled at how Dantata transformed “family businesses from traditional buying and selling into modern civil engineering and construction services,” creating thousands of jobs.
The statesman particularly praised the billionaire’s “rare quality” of wealth without ostentation and urged the federal government to immortalize him by naming a national institution in his honor.
Legislative Recognition
House Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, in a message conveyed by media aide Musa Abdullahi Krishi, celebrated Dantata as “one of the most successful Nigerians” whose business empire spanned construction, manufacturing, banking, agriculture, and oil/gas.
The Speaker highlighted the deceased’s “resilience, tenacity, and consistency,” noting his enterprises served as “a beacon of hope for many.” Tajudeen concluded: “The Dantata story will remain with us for decades to come.”
The unprecedented unity in these tributes underscores Dantata’s unique position as both a business titan and social benefactor. From presidents to parliamentarians to governors, the consensus is clear: Nigeria has lost not just a wealthy man, but a national treasure whose legacy transcends commerce to embody the very spirit of Nigerian enterprise and humanitarianism.
Leave a comment