President Tinubu Commends Dr. Akinwumi Adesina’s Legacy at AfDB
By Patience Ikpeme
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has honored the leadership and accomplishments of Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, the immediate past President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), who recently concluded his tenure.
A statement from the Ministry of Finance Alhaji Mohammed Manga, Director, Press Information and Public Relations said the president’s remarks were delivered by the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, during a book unveiling and send-off ceremony held at the AfDB Headquarters in Abidjan.
President Tinubu praised Dr. Adesina’s transformative leadership and significant contributions to Africa’s economic development during his decade at the helm of the institution.
Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, a distinguished economist and development expert with over 30 years of experience, served as the 8th President of the African Development Bank from 2015 to 2025. During his tenure, he was the driving force behind the bank’s agenda to achieve the “High 5” priorities, which have become a blueprint for development across the continent: Light Up and Power Africa, Feed Africa, Integrate Africa, Industrialize Africa, and Improve the Quality of Life for the People of Africa.
In his tribute message, President Tinubu stated, “We celebrate your decade-long leadership and achievements at the African Development Bank. Your dedication to Africa’s economic transformation has inspired a new generation of leaders. We wish you continued success in your future endeavors.”
The ceremony, themed “Akinwumi A. Adesina: The Man, His Mandate, Mission and Message,” was a testament to Dr. Adesina’s lasting legacy. Under his leadership, the bank’s authorized capital grew from $93 billion to a historic $318 billion, and he is credited with mobilizing billions of dollars for various projects, including the Africa Investment Forum. His work has left an indelible mark on the continent’s economic landscape, touching the lives of more than 565 million people.
