The remains of Nigerian business icon and philanthropist Alhaji Aminu Dantata, were laid to rest on Tuesday in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, fulfilling his lifelong wish to be buried in one of Islam's holiest cities. He passed away at age 94 in Abu Dhabi on Saturday. The Janazah (funeral) prayer took place at the Prophet's Mosque after Asr prayer, followed by burial at the historic Baqiyya Cemetery. Hundreds of mourners, including dignitaries and prominent figures, attended the solemn rites.
Leading the high-profile Nigerian delegation were governors, top politicians and industrialists. Africa's richest man, Aliko Dangote, and billionaire Femi Otedola escorted Dantata's remains from Abu Dhabi to Madinah. Dangote, Otedola, and others also visited the family at Mobeed Hotel before the burial.
Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi, and the 15th and 16th Emirs of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero and Muhammadu Sanusi II, were present, along with federal ministers and lawmakers, including Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar and Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin.
In a rare gesture, Saudi authorities allowed Yusuf, Namadi, and Sanusi II to view the body and offer a final prayer before burial, acknowledging Dantata’s esteemed legacy.
Governor Yusuf described Dantata as more than a businessman, "a father figure, philanthropist, and guiding light." Namadi extended condolences on behalf of Jigawa State, praying for his peaceful rest in Paradise.
Sanusi II led a special prayer, lauding Dantata’s impact on commerce, faith, and community service. He called the late industrialist a “beacon of generosity” whose influence transcended business.
Tajuddeen, Dantata’s eldest son, expressed heartfelt appreciation for the dignitaries’ support, viewing it as a reflection of the deep respect his father earned nationwide.
Femi Otedola called Dantata’s death a monumental loss to Nigeria’s business landscape, hailing him as a mentor who embodied integrity and visionary leadership.
Other attendees included the Chairman of the Kano Business Community, Sabiu Bako; the Emir of Karaye, Muhammad Mahraz; and several Islamic scholars who paid tribute to Dantata’s humility and devotion to charitable causes.
Social media clips showed a deeply emotional scene in Madinah, where prayers echoed through the Holy Mosque, honoring a man whose legacy continues to inspire generations.