Nigerian billionaire Abdul Samad Rabiu is set to build a N1-billion ($2.3-million) amphitheater building in one of the country’s federal universities, University Ilorin, through his philanthropic organization, the Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa).
The amphitheater facility, which includes a 3,000-person capacity main auditorium, a wide platform with offices, and large storage facilities, among other things, would be finished in 11 months as part of ASR Africa’s commitment to education in the country.
When completed, the structure will allow a significant number of students to use the facility for general studies classes and various other courses without causing congestion.
According to Pulse, the university’s vice chancellor, Sulyman Abdulkareem, who spoke at the groundbreaking ceremony, praised Rabiu’s generosity to the university, calling it a “fantastic donation” from ASR.
“After the decision was communicated to me on an official journey, I found it so incredible that I was praying so hard for the dream to become a quick reality,” he said, noting that the university was chosen by ASR Africa to be the beneficiary of the landmark project out of more than 200 in the country.
Ubon Udoh, managing director of ASR Africa, stated that the best contractors had been hired to ensure commitment and early completion of the amphitheater.
He added that the decision to build the amphitheater at the university fits with Rabiu’s dedication to helping Africans look inward to solve their problems, while implementing solutions to such concerns.
ASR Africa is a nonprofit foundation formed by Rabiu in April 2021 to support long-term, impact-driven solutions to developmental concerns affecting health, education, and social development throughout Africa.
Rabiu, chairman of BUA Group, one of Africa’s fastest-expanding manufacturing conglomerates, has recently expanded his charitable interests through ASR Africa.
Nearly two months ago, the billionaire, Nigeria’s third-richest man, announced the establishment of a N10-billion ($23.8 million) Nigeria Security Support Fund to provide security equipment, medical supplies, and other supplies to the families of soldiers fighting terrorists in the country’s northeast, as well as to strengthen local infrastructure.
The donation is the single largest donated to a philanthropic cause by a Nigerian businessman, and it comes on the heels of Rabiu’s $3-million development initiative in Niger three weeks ago through ASR Africa.
