President of the African Development Bank, AfDB, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, has paid a courtesy visit to former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari.
He expressed appreciation for Buhari’s unwavering support throughout his leadership at the continental institution.
The visit comes ahead of the conclusion of Adesina’s second term as AfDB President in September, marking the end of a decade of transformative service.
Adesina, who was first elected in 2015 and re-elected in 2020, is the first Nigerian to head the Bank.
Reflecting on his journey, he recalled how former President Goodluck Jonathan initially nominated him for the position, but Buhari’s subsequent support proved instrumental in his eventual success.
He noted that during his first campaign, he was seen as a “stranded candidate” due to Nigeria’s transition of power at the time. However, seeking Buhari’s backing early in his administration helped solidify Nigeria’s continued endorsement of his candidacy.
“He strongly stood by me in difficult times, which ensured my re-election. Thank you, Sir,” Adesina said during the visit.
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The AfDB President also highlighted the many critical moments when Buhari’s endorsement provided him with the moral and diplomatic strength to lead effectively, even during challenging periods.
Buhari praised Adesina for his professional accomplishments and commended his integrity and work ethic.
“I always look at people as Nigerians, and if they need assistance, I support them on their merit,” Buhari said, stressing that he values competence over political alignment.
He also congratulated Adesina on the launch of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones, SAPZ, an ambitious initiative under his leadership aimed at transforming Africa’s agriculture sector and accelerating agro-industrialisation.
The SAPZ programme is one of Adesina’s flagship achievements, designed to attract private sector investment, create jobs, and promote food security across the continent.
The visit to Buhari forms part of Adesina’s series of courtesy engagements as he prepares to step down from the helm of Africa’s premier development finance institution.
NAN
