Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), has described his leadership role at the bank as the greatest honour of his life. Speaking during a media breakfast session to open the AfDB 2025 Annual Meetings in Abidjan. Adesina reflected on a decade-long journey marked by dedication and impact.
“It has been a decade of relentless purpose, enduring passion, and tireless service,” he shared. “I thank you for walking this journey with me.”
A renowned Nigerian development economist and expert in agricultural transformation. Adesina took office in 2015 following a successful tenure as Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture. During his time in public service, he played a key role in reforming Nigeria’s agricultural sector. By fostering private investment and empowering youth and small businesses.
Now marking 10 years as AfDB President. Adesina emphasized the intense commitment it has taken to advance Africa’s development. “When I was elected, I had no grey hair. Today, I have many shades of grey,” he joked, noting it as a symbol of his unrelenting drive to move Africa forward.
Under his leadership, the AfDB has experienced tremendous growth. The bank’s capital increased from $93 billion in 2015 to an impressive $318 billion. Its highest ever. He also led groundbreaking financial innovations, including hybrid capital instruments and synthetic securitisation, placing AfDB at the forefront of multilateral finance.
Akinwumi Adesina reaffirmed his passion for transforming agriculture into a thriving business sector and eradicating poverty, hunger, and malnutrition across the continent. He praised his team for their shared vision and tireless efforts to build a world-class institution that serves Africa with pride.
The AfDB 2025 Annual Meetings, themed “Making Africa’s Capital Work Better for Africa’s Development,” run through Friday, featuring key events like the Presidential Dialogue and the launch of the African Economic Outlook.
