BUA, AD Ports, MAIR Group partner to boost food security, trade

In a move aimed at strengthening regional food security and trade, BUA Group, AD Ports Group, and MAIR Group of Abu Dhabi have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore collaboration in sugar refining, agro-industrial development, and integrated global logistics solutions.

The partnership seeks to establish a world-class platform that will enhance food production, streamline supply chains, and position Abu Dhabi as a hub for trade and manufacturing. It also aligns with the UAE Food Security Strategy 2051, which targets sustainable food production and resilient supply chains, while supporting Nigeria’s agricultural transformation agenda, focused on domestic capacity, value addition, and export growth.

Under the proposed collaboration, BUA Group will leverage its industrial and logistics expertise, AD Ports Group will provide operational and port infrastructure support, and MAIR Group will develop integrated logistics and agro-industrial solutions. Together, the trio aims to create a predictable trade corridor between West Africa and the Gulf, reducing supply chain inefficiencies and enhancing traceability and quality standards.

Abdul Samad Rabiu, Founder and Chairman of BUA Group, described the MoU as “an important milestone in BUA’s international expansion,” adding that the partnership “represents not just a commercial arrangement but a strategic food corridor anchored on shared economic ambition, resilient infrastructure, and disciplined execution.”

A representative of MAIR Group highlighted the initiative’s role in advancing Abu Dhabi’s industrial capabilities, while AD Ports Group emphasized Khalifa Port’s function as “a catalyst for high-impact industrial investments” that will strengthen regional food security and global trade connectivity.

Recognized as one of Africa’s largest conglomerates, BUA Group has major investments across sugar refining, food production, flour milling, cement manufacturing, and infrastructure, bringing extensive operational capacity to the venture. The collaboration is expected to enhance structured aggregation, processing, storage, and maritime export channels, benefiting both regional and global markets.

This historic partnership combines world-class infrastructure, industrial expertise, and strategic vision, setting the stage for a sustainable and resilient food and logistics ecosystem between Nigeria, the UAE, and beyond.