By Ayo Ayodele
Abuja, February 16, 2026 — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has hailed the signing of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Nigeria’s BUA Group and UAE-based AD Ports Group and MAIR Group as a major industrial and trade breakthrough for Nigeria.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the President described the agreement as a tangible outcome of renewed diplomatic and economic engagement between Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates under his administration.
President Tinubu noted that the MoU followed his recent state visits and high-level engagements with UAE leaders, which prioritised trade, investment, infrastructure development and food security. He said the agreement demonstrates the growing strength of bilateral ties and expanding economic cooperation between both countries.
The partnership will explore collaboration in sugar refining, agro-industrial development and integrated global logistics solutions. Under the agreement, sugar refining and advanced logistics infrastructure are expected to be developed in the UAE, a move aimed at enhancing value addition, strengthening supply chain resilience and deepening structured trade flows between West Africa and the Gulf region.
According to the President, the development signals increasing international confidence in Nigeria’s reform agenda and reinforces the country’s commitment to export-led industrialisation.
“Strategic diplomacy must translate into measurable economic gains,” Tinubu said. “This partnership reflects the renewed momentum in Nigeria–UAE relations and our determination to position Nigeria as a competitive industrial and trading nation, while empowering Nigerian businesses to operate confidently on the global stage.”
He also commended the Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, for his sustained investments across key sectors of the Nigerian economy, describing him as a strong believer in Nigeria’s economic potential.
The President observed that BUA Group’s established industrial base in Nigeria, including its integrated food processing operations and investments in port infrastructure upgrades, provides a solid foundation for expanded international trade integration.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to deepening bilateral economic partnerships that attract investment, boost exports, strengthen Nigerian enterprises and deliver sustainable prosperity for the country.