Twenty-four hours after announcing a donation of N1bn to the ongoing fight against the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic in Nigeria, BUA Group, on Friday said it has redeemed the pledge.
This, the group said was done “by way of a confirmed funds transfer to the COVID-19 relief fund account with the Central Bank of Nigeria.”
As promised too, the group also announced an additional donation of N300m to Sokoto, Edo and Ogun States to assist in galvanizing a coordinated response and adequate preparedness in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic in this states.
While the donations to Sokoto and Edo States were on behalf of its Cement subsidiary, BUA Cement which has its major operations in those states, Ogun was selected due to its proximity to Lagos which had been the epicenter of the virus in Nigeria, the statement added.
Recall that Abdul Samad Rabiu, Chairman of BUA Group, on Thursday announced a cash donation of N1bn to the nation’s efforts at curtailing the spread of Covid-19 and another donation of medical and emergency kits and supplies to 9 states. The medical and emergency kits and supplies include face masks, testing kits, safety goggles, gloves, personal protective gear – which have already been ordered and are being expected in the country soon.
Commenting on the additional donation of N300m, Rabiu said although the states are among those earlier identified to benefit from the intervention in the first instance, “BUA is monitoring the situation closely and is also looking at other states that may need additional help.
“We will continue engaging with these states and relevant partners including the NCDC (National Centre for Disease Control) in the areas where they need support to win this fight against COVID-19,” he added. Rabiu also urged other well-meaning Nigerians – individuals and corporates alike, to join hands in supporting the efforts to put the virus in check in Nigeria, financially and otherwise.
“Our country needs us now more than ever. This is the time to come together and support,” he stressed further.