BUA Exposes Fake AI Video Using Chairman Abdul Samad Rabiu’s Face, Warns Public

BUA Group has raised the alarm over the circulation of a fraudulent artificial intelligence (AI)-generated video falsely depicting its Founder and Executive Chairman, Abdul Samad Rabiu, as endorsing an investment platform promising unrealistic financial returns.

In a statement, the conglomerate warned members of the public to disregard the video, describing it as a deceptive scheme designed to lure unsuspecting investors through false representations and fabricated endorsements.

“Our attention has been drawn to an AI-generated video in circulation on social media platforms, promising the general public unrealistic investment returns, and purportedly showing our Founder/Executive Chairman as promoting the platform which is targeted at luring unsuspecting members of the public,” the company stated.

BUA stressed that neither Rabiu, the company, nor any of its subsidiaries has any connection whatsoever with the platform or its investment claims.

“We wish to clearly state that neither our Founder/Executive Chairman, Abdul Samad Rabiu (CFR, CON), BUA Group nor any of our subsidiaries, is in any way or by any means associated/connected with this platform nor its purported investment promise,” the statement added.

The company advised the public to exercise caution and avoid engaging with individuals or platforms making extraordinary promises of quick returns while using the names, images or reputation of BUA and its chairman.

“Members of the public are advised to disregard this video with its messaging and refrain from engaging with any platform or individual promising unrealistic returns in reference to the platform or its campaign,” it said.

BUA further urged Nigerians to report such platforms and individuals to the appropriate law enforcement agencies for investigation and possible prosecution.

The development highlights growing concerns over the use of artificial intelligence technology to create convincing fake videos, commonly known as deepfakes, which are increasingly being deployed by fraudsters to impersonate prominent personalities and reputable organisations.

Abdul Samad Rabiu is one of Africa’s leading industrialists and philanthropists. He founded BUA Group, one of Nigeria’s largest conglomerates with major investments spanning cement manufacturing, sugar refining, food production, real estate and infrastructure.

Through the Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa), he has also become one of the continent’s most notable private-sector contributors to education, healthcare and social development.

BUA Group has grown into a major player in Nigeria’s industrial sector, with operations that contribute significantly to the country’s manufacturing and economic development agenda.