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Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank and former Nigerian Minister of Agriculture, recently celebrated his 65th birthday in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.
The event was attended by top government officials, Nigerian governors, business leaders, legislators, and international development partners, who gathered to honor Adesina’s remarkable contributions to Africa’s development.
President Bola Tinubu congratulated Adesina, acknowledging his innovative and transformative leadership, which has raised the African Development Bank’s capital base from $93 billion to $318 billion. Tinubu praised Adesina’s commitment to reducing poverty and promoting economic growth, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Other notable attendees, including Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia of Benue State, and National President of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Dr. Farouk Rabi’u Mudi, also lauded Adesina’s impactful leadership and vision for Africa’s development.
Adesina’s legacy extends beyond his tenure at the African Development Bank. As Nigeria’s former Minister of Agriculture, he initiated bold reforms that revolutionized the sector, empowering over 15 million farmers and significantly improving agricultural productivity and food security.
As Adesina prepares to conclude his tenure at the African Development Bank on August 31, 2025, speculation surrounding his next chapter continues to grow. With his impressive track record and commitment to Africa’s development, Adesina’s future endeavors are eagerly anticipated.
