Dr. Akinwumi Adesina – President of the African Development Bank (AfDB)
Personal Background
- Full Name: Akinwumi Ayodeji Adesina
- Born: February 6, 1960
- Nationality: Nigerian
- Education:
- B.Sc. in Agricultural Economics – University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), Nigeria
- Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics – Purdue University, USA
Career & Achievements
1. Early Career & Agricultural Leadership
- Worked with Rockefeller Foundation and Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), promoting agricultural innovation across Africa.
2. Minister of Agriculture (Nigeria, 2011–2015)
- Served as Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture under President Goodluck Jonathan.
- Led major reforms, including:
- Ending corruption in fertilizer distribution through the E-Wallet system.
- Expanding local rice production, reducing dependence on imports.
3. President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) (2015–Present)
- Elected as the 8th President of AfDB in 2015 and re-elected in 2020.
- Key Achievements at AfDB:
- Launched the “High 5” priorities:
- Light Up & Power Africa (expanding electricity access).
- Feed Africa (boosting agriculture & food security).
- Industrialize Africa (supporting manufacturing & job creation).
- Integrate Africa (enhancing regional trade & infrastructure).
- Improve the Quality of Life for Africans (investing in healthcare & education).
- Led AfDB’s $10 billion COVID-19 response package for Africa.
- Spearheaded financing for infrastructure, renewable energy, and private sector growth.
- Launched the “High 5” priorities:
Awards & Recognition
- World Food Prize (2017) – First African to win this prestigious award.
- Forbes African of the Year (2013 & 2019).
- Named one of the 100 Most Influential Africans multiple times.
Legacy & Impact
Dr. Adesina is recognized for his commitment to Africa’s economic transformation, championing policies that drive investment, food security, and energy access. He remains one of Africa’s most influential financial leaders.
