The Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, has been conferred with an Honorary Degree by the University of Maiduguri in Borno State.

Rabiu was conferred with the degree during the university’s 24th combined convocation in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, on Saturday.

The Abdul Samad Rabiu International Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, constructed with a N1 billion donation from his personal foundation, ASR Africa, was also commissioned and handed over to the university by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

According to the foundation, the Abdul Samad Rabiu International Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship is a modern and state-of-the-art centre.

It includes administrative offices, dynamic workstations, creative conceptual hubs, a welcoming cafeteria, an extensive library, and an exhibition hall.

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Additionally, it boasts a 150-seater hall, designed for high-profile presentations and academic conferences, further enhancing the University of Maiduguri’s Centre for Entrepreneurship and Enterprise Development complex.

Speaking at the event, Rabiu emphasised the centre’s role as more than just a physical structure, describing it as an innovative hub of ideas, creativity, and practical entrepreneurship.

Rabiu further reflected on the centre’s genesis, which he said was born from his deep belief in the transformative power of education and entrepreneurship.

He said: “In a world where economies are rapidly evolving and Nigeria strides towards renewed hope, centers 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.”

On his part, the MD/CEO of ASR Africa, Dr. Ubon Udoh, hailed 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 also lauded Rabiu for his honorary award, his visionary leadership, and his commitment, towards driving sustainable development in Africa.

The Star