The Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa) has commenced the construction of a state-of-the-art N2.5 billion Oncology Center in Ilorin, aimed at serving the West African region.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria report, this healthcare facility is one of ASR Africa’s numerous philanthropic initiatives dedicated to making a lasting impact on health, education, and social development throughout Africa.
Dr. Ubong Udoh, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of ASR Africa, revealed that this project is part of a collaborative effort with the Kwara Government. ASR Africa provided an N2.5 billion grant to support the state’s tertiary health system, with a focus on establishing an oncological centre.
The initiative covers four states—Sokoto, Ogun, Kwara, and Benin—with a total grant allocation of N10 billion, strategically distributed across geopolitical zones. ASR Africa’s philanthropic endeavours extend beyond healthcare, encompassing education, social development projects, and support for security agencies and the armed forces.
ASR Africa’s philanthropic initiatives and impact Udoh clarified that ASR Africa is open to receiving applications for interventions, including both open applications and fixed grants with specific criteria.
According to him, the foundation prefers to engage with states directly, allowing them to communicate their specific needs, which are then assessed for consideration.
He mentioned that ASR Africa has an annual budget of $100 million, evenly distributed between Nigeria and Africa on a 50-50 basis.
Udoh stressed that this initiative is expected to generate employment opportunities, helping to combat the ongoing “Japa syndrome” in the state and fostering economic empowerment. Furthermore, Udoh noted that ASR Africa is actively involved in various projects, such as the construction of a 3,000-seat amphitheatre at the University of Ilorin and infrastructure support for polytechnics in Kwara.
