President Bola Tinubu has congratulated chairman of BUA Group Abdul Samad Rabiu on his 65th birthday, describing him as one of Africa’s most accomplished businessmen and a key figure in Nigeria’s industrial journey.
In a statement issued by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga on Monday, Tinubu praised Rabiu for his “quiet excellence,” “courageous enterprise” and strong belief in Nigeria.
Mr Rabiu is the founder of BUA Group, a conglomerate with interests in cement, sugar, flour, steel, real estate, oil and gas and ports.
The company’s growth over the last two decades has positioned it among the top indigenous manufacturers in Africa.
“Abdul Samad Rabiu is a builder in every sense,” the president said.
“He has built industries, empowered people, uplifted communities, and continues to invest in the future of our country, not for applause, but out of duty and conviction. Nigeria is proud of him, and I am proud to call him a trusted partner in our nation’s progress.”
President Tinubu noted that Rabiu’s investments have expanded industrial capacity, generated employment and demonstrated the potential of local production.
He also commended Rabiu for his philanthropic work through the Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa), which has funded key projects in health, education and social development across Nigeria and other parts of the continent.
In recent years, Rabiu has emerged as one of Nigeria’s top philanthropists, donating billions of naira toward infrastructure development in universities, security institutions and hospitals.
ASR Africa has built or renovated learning institutions such as the University of Benin Teaching Hospital and the Nigerian Police Force Headquarters, among others.
President Tinubu wished Rabiu good health, strength and wisdom, expressing confidence that his legacy as a patriot, businessman and philanthropist would endure.
Born in Kano in 1960, Abdul Samad Rabiu is the son of late business magnate Khalifah Isyaku Rabiu.
He founded BUA International in 1988 to import and trade commodities.
