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.
