The Abdul Samad Rabiu (ASR) Africa initiative on Tuesday marked a significant milestone with the groundbreaking ceremony for a N250 million intervention project office building for the College of Health Sciences at the Usman Danfodiyo University, Sokoto.
During the inauguration, Dr Ubon Udoh, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of ASR Africa, highlighted the philanthropic nature of the initiative, emphasising the commitment of its founder, who is also the Chairman of BUA Group of Companies.
“At ASR Africa, we allocate $100 million annually to bridge the infrastructural gap in the African educational sector.
“50 per cent of this fund is distributed across institutions in Nigeria based on their intervention needs,” he explained.
Udoh further disclosed that in 2023, ASR Africa awarded N5.5 billion for intervention projects across 22 institutions and N6 billion in 2024 across six institutions in Nigeria, as part of its grand scheme for tertiary institutions.
He assured of continued collaboration with the university, not only through financial support but also through technical assistance and expertise.
Responding, Prof. Lawal Bilbis, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, expressed gratitude on behalf of the university community, describing the occasion as a memorable one filled with joy.
Bilbis emphasised that the intervention project signified a substantial investment in infrastructure and demonstrates a commitment to fostering a conducive environment for learning, research, and innovation.
“As we embark on this transformation journey, let us contemplate the profound impact this project will have on our university community.
“It will not only enhance our physical landscape but also boost the morale of our dedicated staff and inspire our ambitious students to achieve new heights,” he assured.
The vice-chancellor commended the Chairman of the Initiative and the BUA Group for his exceptional generosity and steadfast support in advancing education and societal progress. (NAN)
