University honours BUA’s chief as FG commissions N1bn ASR innovation centre

• Centre for innovation, entrepreneurship

Business a.m.

The University of Maiduguri has honoured industrialist, philanthropist, and chairman of BUA Group and ASR Africa, Abdul Samad Rabiu, by conferring him with an honorary degree during the university’s 24th combined convocation, in recognition of his significant contributions to national development, education, and entrepreneurship in Nigeria.

Coinciding with the convocation, the N1 billion Abdul Samad Rabiu International Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, built with a donation from ASR Africa, Rabiu’s personal foundation, was officially commissioned and handed over to the university by the Federal Government of Nigeria to promote innovation and entrepreneurship among Nigerian youths.

The modern, state-of-the-art centre was officially handed over to the university by Vice President Kashim Shettima during the convocation held within the university’s campus in Maiduguri, Borno State.

“It includes administrative offices, dynamic workstations, creative conceptual hubs, a welcoming cafeteria, an extensive library, and an exhibition hall. Additionally, it boasts a 150-seater hall, designed for high-profile presentations and academic conferences, further enhancing the University of Maiduguri’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Development complex,” ASR Africa said in a statement made available to Business a.m.

In a speech, Rabiu emphasised the centre’s role as more than just a physical structure, adding that he envisioned it as an innovative hub of ideas, creativity, and practical entrepreneurship.

Reflecting on the genesis of the centre, Rabiu said it was born from his deep belief in the transformative power of education and entrepreneurship, a commitment that was further demonstrated by his substantial investment of N1 billion in the centre embarked upon by ASR Africa.

“In a world where economies are rapidly evolving and Nigeria strides towards renewed hope, centres like this are vital for development. They are the platforms for nurturing our future leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs. We must not just learn; we must act,” Abdul Samad Rabiu stated.

Ubon Udoh, managing director and chief executive officer, ASR Africa, highlighted the project’s significance, praising the centre’s potential to spur economic and social growth, offering a global platform for innovative expression and fostering partnerships with leading international educational and innovation institutions.

Udoh lauded the chairman, Abdul Samad Rabiu, for his honorary award, his visionary leadership, and his commitment towards driving sustainable development in Africa.

The events were held within the University of Maiduguri campus and attended by eminent personalities including the Vice President Kashim Shettima Mustapha, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State, royal fathers, other distinguished guests, the student community, amongst others.