Abdulsamad Rabiu: One of the Most Influential Men in Tinubu’s Corner

Abdulsamad Rabiu, a prominent figure in Nigeria, has found himself in the inner circle of President Bola Tinubu. A testament to this is Rabiu's recent visit to the Holy Kaaba in Makkah alongside the President for the Umrah pilgrimage. This experience, which he described as a "deep blessing," appears to have solidified Rabiu's position in the President's corner.

During a dinner for the delegation in Makkah, Rabiu revealed that it was the third time the group had met with Tinubu since their arrival. His involvement in these meetings has been speculated to include a pledge of the business community's support for the President's re-election bid. Back home, Rabiu has consistently aligned his companies' operations with the government's objectives. In October 2026, he met with Tinubu at the Presidential Office in Abuja to discuss this further.

Rabiu is also advocating for the First Lady Oluremi Tinubu to coordinate private-sector involvement in the administration's Renewed Hope social initiatives. His business empire, BUA Group, is diversified across sectors like cement, sugar, food processing, and infrastructure. Rabiu has been vocal about his support for the government's policies, noting that they have improved the foreign exchange environment and reduced food prices - sectors crucial to his businesses.

The President has reciprocated this support, marking Rabiu's birthdays, including his 65th and 66th, with official statements. Rabiu's influence extends beyond personal relationships; the administration even included him in public appearances with other business leaders and government officials during a trip to Makkah.

Rabiu's standing, built on his industrial record, has earned him a seat close to the President's table. With the administration's momentum gaining traction, Rabiu's endorsement could potentially sway voters in the general election scheduled for January 2027.