Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata, a revered Nigerian businessman and philanthropist, passed away at the age of 94 in the early hours of Saturday in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. His death has elicited a profound sense of loss across Nigeria, with numerous prominent figures describing his demise as a monumental national tragedy and the end of a significant era.

Former Senate President Abubakar Bukola Saraki expressed deep sorrow, describing Dantata as a "towering figure" whose life epitomized service, humility, and nation-building. Saraki noted that Nigeria had lost one of its finest statesmen and "silent nation-builders," whose passing marked "the end of an era defined by principled leadership and lifelong dedication to service." He characterized Dantata as a man of "extraordinary substance" who, without seeking public attention, became a national pillar through his contributions to business, philanthropy, and moral leadership. Saraki also acknowledged Dantata as a father figure whose calm wisdom and integrity profoundly shaped his own values.

The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF), led by Chairperson and Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Yahaya, conveyed their profound sorrow, describing Dantata as a renowned business magnate and philanthropist whose passing was a significant loss to Nigeria. They celebrated the Kano-born industrialist as one of Africa’s wealthiest and most respected private sector leaders, acknowledging his exceptional legacy as a visionary entrepreneur and a symbol of integrity. Governor Yahaya highlighted Dantata’s "monumental and enduring" contributions to the socio-economic transformation of Northern Nigeria and the country at large, noting his dedication to developmental issues.

Vice President Kashim Shettima also expressed deep grief, stating that the nation had lost an "irreplaceable institution." Shettima praised Dantata for his lifetime of service, calling him "a living bridge that connected us to our past" and one of "the greatest titans in Nigeria’s philosophical history." He emphasized that Dantata’s departure marks the end of a vital chapter in the country’s economic and democratic evolution, likening it to a significant historical departure in African tradition.

President Bola Tinubu mourned Dantata’s passing as a "monumental national loss," recognizing his sterling contributions to Nigeria’s economic growth and development. Beyond his renowned business acumen, President Tinubu recalled Dantata’s public service, including his role as Commissioner for Planning and Development in the old Kano State. The President eulogized Dantata for his public-spirited philanthropy, which touched countless lives, particularly in education and healthcare delivery, and spoke of the deep encouragement and benefit he received from Dantata’s wise counsel and support.

Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, joined the nation in mourning, referring to Dantata as a "national treasure" whose life embodied service, humility, and excellence. Barau praised Dantata’s "unmatched legacy" across various sectors, including commerce, real estate, banking, construction, oil and gas, and manufacturing, as well as his deep devotion to charitable causes. He described Dantata as "more than a businessman; he was a builder of lives, communities, and institutions," and a "beacon of integrity, discipline, and generosity."

Across all tributes, there was a consistent prayer for Almighty Allah (SWT) to grant Alhaji Aminu Alhassan Dantata Aljannah Firdaus. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy of visionary leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, integrity, and extensive philanthropy is set to continue inspiring generations in Nigeria and beyond.