Anthony Emeka Nwosu
Former Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, joined global leaders, African dignitaries, and development experts in Abidjan to celebrate the conclusion of Dr. Akinwumi Adesina’s remarkable ten-year tenure as President of the African Development Bank (AfDB).
In a heartfelt address, Prof. Osinbajo reflected on the passage of time and the significant achievements that have defined Dr. Adesina’s leadership at the Bank. “Ten years ago, on September 1, 2015, I stood in this very hall as Vice President of Nigeria to witness the inauguration of my brother and friend, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, as President of the African Development Bank. A decade on, I have returned to the same podium to celebrate his final day in office after ten remarkable years of leadership,” Osinbajo remarked.
The event, held at the AfDB headquarters in Abidjan, was both ceremonial and emotional, as it marked the end of a historic era for the institution and the continent. Dr. Adesina, who took office in 2015 as the 8th President of the African Development Bank, is widely credited with transforming the Bank into a more dynamic and impactful institution focused on the “High 5” priorities: Light Up and Power Africa, Feed Africa, Industrialize Africa, Integrate Africa, and Improve the Quality of Life for the People of Africa.
Prof. Osinbajo attended the ceremony in the company of his wife, Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo, and a distinguished Nigerian delegation. Among them were Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, who represented the President of Nigeria; Alhaji Idi Mukhtar Maiha, Minister of Livestock Development; Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde; Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang; Ogun State Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele; and His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, the Oniru of Iruland and former Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture.
According to Prof. Osinbajo, the diversity and prominence of attendees reflected the far-reaching impact of Dr. Adesina’s work, not only within Nigeria but across the African continent. “Dr. Adesina’s tenure has been a story of vision, resilience, and tangible progress. Under his leadership, the AfDB has financed transformative infrastructure projects, championed agricultural innovation, and empowered millions across Africa,” Osinbajo noted.
The event also featured tributes from global development partners, African heads of state, and members of the international financial community, all of whom praised Dr. Adesina’s dedication to sustainable growth and inclusive development.
In closing, Prof. Osinbajo expressed gratitude to Mrs. Yemisi Adesina, wife of the outgoing AfDB President, for her warmth and hospitality during the ceremony, describing the occasion as a “celebration of excellence, friendship, and service to Africa.”
Dr. Akinwumi Adesina’s decade of leadership has left a lasting legacy within the African Development Bank, reinforcing the institution’s role as a cornerstone of Africa’s economic development agenda. His tenure will be remembered for its focus on innovation, accountability, and a passionate drive to unlock the continent’s vast potential.
