Adesina Hands Over AfDB Presidency After Historic Decade of Impact
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) has paid tribute to its outgoing President, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, who concluded his ten-year tenure on Saturday with a farewell ceremony marked by accolades from African leaders, development partners, and staff.
At the event, held at the Sofitel Hotel in Abidjan, Nigeria’s Industry Minister, Dr Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite, praised Adesina for redefining development in Africa. “His legacy is not just in the projects he built, but in the excellence, integrity, and innovative spirit he instilled in every person he led,” she said, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Dr Adesina, who formally hands over the presidency to Dr Sidi Ould Tah on 1 September, reflected on his mission-driven leadership: “I came to the Bank with a mission, not to take a job … to be known not just for being a great bank, but for being Africa’s most trusted development financier.”
During his presidency, the AfDB’s capital base rose from $93 billion in 2015 to $318 billion in 2024, while the Bank retained its AAA credit rating. Its High 5 strategic priorities positively impacted 565 million people, and more than $102 billion in financing was provided for African economies, including $55 billion invested in infrastructure.
Tributes also highlighted Adesina’s pioneering role in development finance, from introducing synthetic securitisation to launching a $750 million private sector hybrid capital transaction. Under his leadership, gender inclusivity improved significantly, with women Vice Presidents rising from 14 per cent in 2015 to 44 per cent in 2025.
Former Nigerian Vice President Yemi Osinbajo hailed Adesina’s “visionary leadership” in preparing the Bank to weather global crises. Adesina, in turn, credited his wife Grace and AfDB staff, describing them as the Bank’s “greatest asset” and “an exemplary showcase of Africa’s very best.”
As he passed the baton, Adesina reassured his successor: “Leadership may change, but the mission remains. The Bank’s direction is clear, its resolve strong, and its commitment to Africa’s development unshakable.”
