Nigerian billionaire and Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, has made headlines following the award of $20.6 million (about ₦30 billion) in cash gifts to 510 employees of the conglomerate, in what is being described as one of the most generous staff reward initiatives in Nigeria’s private sector.
The cash gifts were presented during the BUA Group Night of Excellence and Long Service Awards, an event dedicated to celebrating employees whose years of service range from five to over four decades. The initiative was designed to recognise loyalty, dedication, and the critical role staff have played in the company’s growth.
Under the reward structure, five employees received $690,000 each, while another five staff members were awarded $345,000 each. The remaining beneficiaries received amounts ranging from $3,000 to $69,000, depending on years of service and level of contribution.
Speaking at the ceremony, Rabiu highlighted that BUA’s success story—spanning more than 35 years—was built on the commitment and hard work of its employees. He described staff members as partners in progress, stressing that long-term business growth is only possible when workers are genuinely valued and rewarded.
The awards ceremony drew top executives, industry leaders, and other dignitaries, underscoring the significance of the occasion. The gesture has since attracted widespread praise across social and traditional media, with many describing it as a strong example of people-centred leadership in corporate Nigeria.
The reward comes amid strong performance by BUA Cement and other BUA Group businesses, reinforcing the company’s approach of sharing success with those who help create it. For many observers, the initiative sets a new benchmark for employee recognition and corporate responsibility in Africa’s largest economy.
