Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina has officially stepped down as President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), handing over leadership to Dr. Sidi Ould Tah of Mauritania on September 1. During his decade-long tenure, Adesina carved out a reputation as a visionary leader, reshaping perceptions of Africa and driving transformative development across the continent.
Once Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture under President Goodluck Jonathan, Adesina championed food security and agricultural innovation. His policies often placed Nigeria at the forefront of his agenda, reflecting his commitment to ensuring his home country benefited from Africa-wide progress.
Under his leadership, every region of Africa saw projects and investments aimed at lasting impact. His efforts earned commendations from fellow African heads of state and solidified his standing among the most influential leaders of his generation.
To honor his contributions, Nigeria organized an elaborate farewell ceremony in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire. The event took place at the Ivoire Trade Centre and the Sofitel Hotel Ivoire, with friends, colleagues, government officials, and dignitaries in attendance. Guests included former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, ministers, state governors, and traditional ruler all coming together to celebrate Dr. Adesina’s decades of service.
At the farewell, he unveiled his new book, The Man, Mission and Message, which chronicles his journey leading the AfDB, the challenges he faced, and the philosophy that guided him. Emotions ran high as speakers recalled his servant-leadership style, his empathy for the vulnerable, and his deep desire to uplift lives across Africa.
As he transitions to this new chapter, history will remember Dr. Adesina not just for what he built but for the standard he set: bold, principled, and grounded in relentless hope for Africa’s future.
