The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has officially approved the burial of renowned Nigerian business magnate and respected elder statesman, Alhaji Aminu Dantata, in the holy city of Madinah, fulfilling his most cherished final wish. The late philanthropist had expressed his deep desire to be buried in the sacred city during his lifetime, a testament to his unwavering faith and devotion.
Dantata passed away on Friday in Abu Dhabi at the age of 93, after a lifetime marked by extraordinary achievements in business, philanthropy, and community service. Initially, there were plans to fly his remains back to Kano, Nigeria, where preparations were underway for his burial pending the final decision from Saudi authorities.
In a significant development, the Saudi government granted approval, allowing the respected elder statesman to be laid to rest in Madinah, regarded as one of the holiest sites in Islam and home to the Prophet Muhammad’s mosque, Masjid an-Nabawi.
The confirmation of this exceptional honor was shared by his relative, Sanusi Dantata, who took to social media to announce the news with deep gratitude and emotion.
“Alhamdulillah, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has granted approval for the remains of late Alh. Aminu Dantata to be buried in the Holy land of Madinah! Arrangements are ongoing for his Janazah tomorrow, Insha Allah, in the Holy Prophet’s mosque,” Sanusi posted on Sunday, reflecting the family’s relief and fulfillment of their patriarch’s last wish.
The Janazah (funeral prayer) is scheduled to take place on Sunday, June 29, at Masjid an-Nabawi (The Prophet’s Mosque), a place that holds immense religious significance as the second-holiest mosque in Islam, after the Kaaba in Makkah. For Muslims around the world, being laid to rest in Madinah is regarded as a rare spiritual privilege and an honor that reflects a life dedicated to faith and service.
The news of Dantata’s burial arrangement has drawn heartfelt reactions from Nigerians and Muslims globally, who have praised his remarkable contributions to society and his deep piety. Many described him as a beacon of generosity and integrity, who dedicated his life to supporting education, healthcare, and religious causes both in Nigeria and beyond.
Family members, close associates, and admirers continue to pay tribute to his legacy, praying for his peaceful repose and for Allah’s continued guidance and blessings upon his descendants. His passing marks the end of an era for Nigeria’s business community and the wider Muslim Ummah.[/p>