A private jet owned by Abdulsamad Rabiu, Africa’s third-richest man, has been confirmed by Bombardier as the first delivery of its flagship Global 8000 in Africa. The aircraft’s arrival represents a major milestone for the continent’s private aviation sector.
In early June, Abdul Samad Rabiu, chairman of BUA Group and Africa’s third-richest man, revealed that he had received delivery of a Bombardier Global 8000 private jet reportedly worth around $81 million, sharing the news in a post on his Instagram page.
The agreement was said to have been finalised on 4 December 2025 at BUA’s office in Dubai, following several weeks of discussions. The arrangement positions Rabiu among the early African buyers of the ultra-long-range aircraft, which can reach a price of about $95 million when customised interiors are included.
Bombardier has confirmed that the jet is currently operational with BUA Group, a Nigeria-based conglomerate. The manufacturer described the development as a significant milestone for the Global 8000 programme and its entry into new markets.
In a post on X, Bombardier stated that “the first Global 8000 delivered in Africa is now in service with BUA Group,” noting the aircraft’s official entry into active operations.
Regarded as one of the most advanced business jets globally, the Global 8000 is engineered for ultra-long-haul journeys, enabling nonstop travel between major international cities. According to Bombardier, the aircraft can operate direct flights from Lagos to destinations such as Los Angeles, Tokyo, and Perth, reinforcing its position at the premium end of executive aviation.
Rabiu, whose net worth is estimated at about $19 billion according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, has recorded a significant increase in wealth driven by the strong performance of BUA Cement and BUA Foods, further strengthening his standing among Africa’s richest individuals.
The Bombardier Global 8000 is the company’s latest flagship private jet and is regarded as one of the most sophisticated business aircraft ever developed.
Engineered for performance, the aircraft is positioned as both the fastest and longest-range purpose-built business jet, with an estimated maximum range of around 8,000 nautical miles (14,800 km). This capability enables nonstop intercontinental flights between major city pairs, including routes such as Lagos to New York or Johannesburg to Washington, D.C.
With a top speed of Mach 0.94, the jet is regarded as the fastest civil aircraft since the Concorde ended service. It is developed from Bombardier’s Global 7500 design, but features upgraded performance and a greater range.
The aircraft’s interior is built for long-distance luxury travel, offering up to four separate cabin zones, dedicated sleeping areas, a fully equipped galley, and modern high-speed connectivity. Its price generally starts from about $80 million, with final costs increasing based on customisation choices.
It is designed primarily for ultra-wealthy individuals, top corporate leaders, and government officials who need the ability to travel internationally without stopping, while maintaining speed, privacy, and maximum comfort.
