Abdul Samad Rabiu Rewards Loyal BUA Staff with Massive ₦30 Billion Cash Gifts For Christmas

Nigerian billionaire Abdul Samad Rabiu, Chairman of BUA Group, made headlines on December 13, 2025, by gifting a staggering ₦30 billion in cash rewards to 1,768 long-serving employees. This act of generosity occurred at the BUA Night of Excellence and Long Service Awards in Lagos.

The event honored 510 staff members for their service spanning 5 to 40 years. Rabiu described it as a celebration of loyalty, commitment, and resilience. The total payout included ₦13 billion for top-performing employees. Five individuals each received ₦1 billion, recognizing their exceptional contributions.

Three others got ₦500 million each. Seven were awarded ₦250 million apiece. Nine employees received ₦200 million, and 16 got ₦100 million. The remaining ₦17 billion was distributed to other staff across Nigeria.

BUA Group, founded in 1988, has grown into one of Africa's largest conglomerates. It operates in cement, sugar, real estate, and logistics. BUA Foods Plc holds the largest market capitalization on the Nigerian Exchange. Subsidiaries contribute trillions in market value.

Rabiu credited employees for this success, noting their role from the company's early days. In his speech, Rabiu said, "Today is a very special occasion for me. We are celebrating good service, loyalty, commitment, resilience and the extraordinary power of faith."

He added, "You were with us when all we had was determination, faith and the belief that we could build something meaningful for Nigeria and for Africa." Rabiu emphasized that the rewards were not just payments but tokens of appreciation.

"This is not an achievement of one man or capital alone. It is your loyalty and dedication that built this company." The event drew prominent figures. Aliko Dangote, Chairman of Dangote Group, attended. Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun was present. Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy Hannatu Musawa also joined.

Their presence highlighted the significance of the occasion in Nigeria's business community. Rabiu, often called Nigeria's second-richest man, has a history of philanthropy. His net worth stems from BUA's diverse operations.

This ₦30 billion gift, equivalent to about $20.7 million, comes amid economic challenges in Nigeria. Rising living costs and uncertainty make such rewards timely. Rabiu noted that businesses thrive when employees feel valued and secure.

Public reactions on social media praised the move

One X user highlighted the ₦30 billion dole-out as a fiery reward for BUA staff. Other posts echoed appreciation for Rabiu's leadership style. Instagram reels shared videos of the event, showcasing the joy among recipients.

Who Is Abdul Samad Rabiu and What Is BUA Group?

Abdul Samad Rabiu founded BUA Group in 1988 with modest beginnings. Today, BUA stands as one of Nigeria's largest conglomerates with interests in cement production, food processing, sugar refining, and real estate.

BUA Foods Plc currently holds the position of largest company by market capitalization on the Nigerian Exchange. The group's subsidiaries collectively contribute trillions of naira in market value.

Rabiu ranks among Africa's wealthiest individuals with a net worth estimated at billions of dollars. His business philosophy centers on employee loyalty, long-term thinking, and shared prosperity.