From Suleiman Amagbor, in Lagos
It was a celebratory mood with cheers filling air at the International Women Society’s (IWS) Skill Acquisition Centre in Lagos State on Wednesday as the Abdul Samad Rabiu Initiative for Africa (ASR Africa), donated BUA Foods products as palliative to widows.
The palliative, comprising IRS Pasta, IRS semolina, and BUA Rice and a N10 million grant were parts of activities to celebrate the 2024 Widows Feast and Empowerment programme organised by the IWS in Lagos State.
Speaking to journalists at the sideline of the event, the widows paid glowing tributes to ASR Africa and BUA Foods’ Chairman, for the donation of essential food items, hailing the quality of BUA Foods’ products.
They were delighted that the IRS Pasta, IRS semolina, and BUA Rice donated to them would provide vital sustenance and access to nutritious meals for them and other family members.
ASR Africa, supported by BUA Foods, donated food and N10 million grant to bring relief to many widows facing economic hardship in commemoration of the 2024 International Widows’ Day.
“In our role as a company, we believe that our responsibility extends beyond business. It is about making a meaningful impact on the lives of those around us.”
“Our commitment to corporate social responsibility drives us to engage in initiatives like this, where we can make a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most,” the Managing Director of BUA Foods, Ayodele Abioye, said.
Many widows highlighted the positive impact the donation of BUA Foods products would have on them.
Expressing her gratitude, one of the beneficiaries, Mrs Khadija Rufai, said, “We are overwhelmed with gratitude for ASR Africa for this generous donation of food items to us.
“This donation will alleviate significant pressure on my household, allowing me to focus on my children’s well-being and education.”
Another widow, Mrs Adebimpe Lanre, said, “This donation of BUA Foods’ product by ASR Africa is a lifesaver for many of us. It will make a huge difference in our households, allowing us to focus on other important needs.”
“Since I lost my husband, I’ve had to be resourceful in providing for my family. I know how nutritious and delicious BUA Foods’ products are and I am delighted to be going home with some, especially the IRS spaghetti, today,” a widow who is a resident of Lagos, Mrs Catherine, said.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ASR Africa, Dr. Ubon Udoh, said the N10 million grant was part of ASR Africa’s ongoing efforts to invest in social development as one of its primary focus areas.
He mentioned that “the grant is a testament to the commitment of the Chairman of ASR Africa and the BUA Group to improve the livelihoods and welfare of Nigerians”.
He added that “the grant, which will be distributed to widows in partnership with IWS, is aimed at bringing relief to the beneficiaries while ensuring its relevance and sustainability”.
Speaking at the event, the Chairperson of the Widows’ Trust Fund of IWS, Mrs. Adeola Adebanke, also expressed her utmost joy and satisfaction toward the food donation and grant to the organisation by the Chairman of ASR Africa and the BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu.
She prayed that the Chairman would continue to make giant strides and break new boundaries.
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