The Abdul Samad Rabiu Initiative for Africa (ASR Africa), in commemoration of the 2024 International Widows’ Day, donated N10 million grant to the International Women’s Society (IWS) on Tuesday in Lagos.
ASR Africa is a brainchild of African industrialist, philanthropist, and Chairman of BUA Group, Mr Abdul Samad Rabiu.
The initiative, established in 2021, aims to provide sustainable, impact-based, homegrown solutions to developmental issues affecting health, education, and social development within Africa.
Dr Ubon Udoh, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of ASR Africa, announced the donation at the Widows Feast and Empowerment Programme organised by IWS in Lagos.
According to Udoh, the grant is part of ASR Africa’s ongoing efforts to invest in social development, one of its primary focus areas.
He noted that the grant also reflected the commitment of the chairman of ASR Africa and BUA Group to improving the livelihoods and welfare of Nigerians.
He said that the grant, distributed to widows in partnership with IWS, aimed to bring relief to the beneficiaries while ensuring its relevance and sustainability.
Udoh appreciated the significant work done by IWS since its establishment in 1957.
Commenting on the donation, Mrs Adeola Adebanke, Chairperson of the Widows’ Trust Fund of IWS, expressed joy and satisfaction.
She stated that not less than 250 widows benefited from the empowerment programme.
Adebanke explained that the programme, organised yearly through the IWS WTF, is held to feast with and empower the widows.
She further explained that the IWS WTF plays a vital role in supporting widows by providing them with the resources, skills, and connections needed to build a bright future.
Adebanke prayed that the ASR Africa/BUA Group chairman continues to make significant strides and break new boundaries.
The widows unanimously expressed their gratitude to ASR Africa and BUA Foods Plc for the timely palliative care packs received.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 250 widows received palliative care packs from BUA Foods Plc, which comprised rice, pasta, edible oil, and semolina.
