Abdul Samad Rabiu, chairman of BUA Group and one of Africa's wealthiest businessmen, has taken delivery of a Bombardier Global 8000 private jet valued at approximately $81 million. The aircraft, known for its ultra-long-range capability, can fly up to 8,000 nautical miles (14,800 kilometers) nonstop, enabling direct flights from Lagos to New York or Dubai to Houston without refueling.
New Addition to BUA Fleet
Rabiu confirmed the delivery on Tuesday, June 9, via a post on his official Instagram page, stating simply: "Alhamdu Lillah. A new addition. Global 8000." The purchase agreement was reportedly finalized on December 4, 2025, at BUA Group's offices in Dubai after negotiations with Bombardier executives. This aircraft joins BUA Group's existing fleet, which includes a Challenger 350 and a Global 6500, positioning the conglomerate with one of the most extensive executive aviation fleets among African businesses.
Key Features of the Bombardier Global 8000
The Bombardier Global 8000 is among the most expensive private jets in the world, with prices ranging from $85 million to $95 million depending on interior customization. It can accommodate up to 19 passengers and features an advanced cabin with improved air filtration, lower cabin altitude for reduced fatigue, and optimized seating configurations for long-haul travel. The lighting system is designed to minimize jet lag, enhancing passenger comfort on extended journeys.
Rabiu's Growing Wealth and Business Expansion
This acquisition comes amid significant growth for BUA Group, which operates across cement, food processing, agriculture, infrastructure, ports, real estate, and energy sectors. The Global 8000 is expected to streamline executive travel across the group's operations in Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and North America by reducing travel time and eliminating stopovers.
As of 2026, Rabiu's net worth is estimated at $11.2 billion, a $6.1 billion increase from the previous year, largely driven by the performance of BUA Cement, a publicly listed company. BUA Foods, the group's food division, also posted strong results, with a profit after tax of N142.32 billion in the first quarter of 2026, up from N125.28 billion in the same period of 2025.
Dividend Payout
Earlier reports indicated that Rabiu is set to receive N189.74 billion in dividends from his stake in BUA Cement Plc. The company declared a N10.00 dividend per share, and Rabiu, holding a 56.03% stake (18.974 billion shares out of 33.864 billion), is the largest beneficiary of the payout, approved at the 10th Annual General Meeting in Abuja.
