Tinubu visits Dantata family in Kano, says late philanthropist gave so much to Nigeria

President Bola Tinubu says Aminu Dantata, the late business mogul and philanthropist, dedicated much of his wealth to helping people.

Speaking on Friday during a condolence visit to the Dantata’s family in Kano, Tinubu said the late philanthropist was part of his family.

“This is a deeply personal visit for me. I came to condole with the Dantata family and the good people of Kano,” the president said.

“He was not just a respected figure; he was part of my family.”

Tinubu recalled visiting Dantata before the 2023 presidential election to seek his prayers and support.

“I came to him for prayers before the election, and he gave me his blessings. I promised to come back to thank him, but instead of me visiting, he came to Abuja,” he said.

“That was the kind of man he was. Humble, simple, and sincere.

“If friendship and goodwill continue into the hereafter, Dantata will be there in the marketplace, feeding the hungry and comforting the sick.

“He gave so much of himself to the service of our country and its people.

“We have lost a titan. We have lost the conscience of our country. May Allah, in his infinite mercy, grant him aljannah firdaus.”

Abba Yusuf, governor of Kano, thanked the president for his support to the Dantata family and during the burial arrangements.

“The entire process was seamless and successful, thanks to your leadership and support,” he said.

“We also know your appeals to Saudi Arabia and Dubai leaders, which facilitated the necessary arrangements. For this, we remain grateful.”

Yusuf prayed for strength and good health so Tinubu could deliver on his commitment to building a better Nigeria.

Tajudeen Dantata, the eldest son of the late philanthropist, thanked Tinubu for the visit.

“Much has been said today about his excellency’s swift and heartfelt response upon hearing of our father’s passing. We cannot thank you enough,” he said.

“You have demonstrated closeness with him while he was alive, and even in his death, you have proven that he was a dear brother and friend.

“We witnessed your relationship with him before you became president. We saw how you engaged with him during his lifetime and reacted to his demise. On behalf of the family, we thank you wholeheartedly.”

Born in 1931, Dantata was the last surviving son of Alhassan Dantata, one of West Africa’s most prominent pre-independence merchants.

The industrialist passed away on June 28, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), at 94.

He was buried in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, on July 1.