A high-powered Nigerian Federal Government delegation led by Defence Minister Muhammad Badaru Abubakar has arrived in Madina, Saudi Arabia, to receive the remains of the late business titan and elder statesman, Alhaji Aminu Dantata June 30, 2025.
The delegation’s arrival signals the national significance of Dantata’s passing and the government’s commitment to honoring his legacy June 30.
Death of A Nigerian Icon in Exile
Alhaji Aminu Dantata, one of Nigeria’s most respected industrialists and philanthropists.
Died at the age of 94 in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, after a brief illness.
His death sent shockwaves across Nigeria, especially in Kano State, where his family and business empire are rooted.
Despite expectations that his funeral would be held in Kano.
Dantata’s will explicitly requested burial in the holy city of Madina, Saudi Arabia, beside his late wife, Rabi Dantata, who passed away in 2023.
This wish was formally approved by Saudi authorities, underscoring the deep Islamic faith that defined his life.
Federal Government’s High-Profile Delegation
The Nigerian delegation departed Nigeria late Sunday and arrived in Madina early Monday to oversee funeral arrangements and pay respects.
Besides Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar, the team includes Attorney General.
And Minister of Justice Prince Lateef Fagbemi, Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris.
And Minister of State for Housing Yusuf Abdullahi Ata.
Joining them are prominent Islamic clerics such as Dr. Bashir Aliyu Umar, Sheikh Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa.
And Khalifa Abdullahi Muhammad, the Imam of Dantata Mosque in Abuja.
The presence of the Nigerian government delegation in Saudi Arabia reflects the religious and cultural importance of the burial rites.
Nigerian Consulate in Jeddah Coordinates Funeral Preparations
Officials from the Nigerian Consulate General in Jeddah, led by Ambassador Muazzam Ibrahim Nayaya.
They have been working tirelessly to finalize arrangements for the Janazah (funeral prayer) scheduled at the Prophet’s Mosque in Madina.
The consulate’s involvement highlights the diplomatic coordination required to honor a Nigerian figure of Dantata’s stature abroad.
National Mourning and Legacy Reflections
A senior member of the delegation expressed that the Federal Government stands with the Dantata family.
And the entire nation in mourning a visionary leader whose impact on Nigeria’s economic and social development will endure for generations.
Dantata’s legacy as a pioneer of modern enterprise and philanthropy in Nigeria has earned him reverence beyond business circles, making his death a moment of national reflection.
Controversy and Criticism: The Cost of Dying Abroad
While the government’s gesture is commendable, Dantata’s death and burial abroad raise uncomfortable questions about Nigeria’s healthcare system and elite privilege.
The fact that one of Nigeria’s wealthiest and most influential businessmen had to seek medical care and eventually die outside the country underscores systemic failures.
Critics argue that this reality exposes the gulf between Nigeria’s ruling class and ordinary citizens, many of whom lack access to basic healthcare.
The Political Dimension: Government’s Show of Respect or Political Posturing
Or a calculated political move by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to align itself with revered national figures and their influential families.
What Lies Ahead: Honoring Dantata’s Vision
As funeral rites proceed in Madina, Nigerians hope the government will translate the spirit of Dantata’s philanthropy and vision into concrete actions that address the nation’s socio-economic challenges.
