President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) Group, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, has publicly expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the immediate past President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari for the unwavering support he received during his journey to becoming — and remaining — the leader of Africa’s foremost financial institution.
Dr. Adesina, who made a courtesy visit to the former Nigerian president, said the meeting was a deeply personal one meant to convey his gratitude for Buhari’s role in ensuring his successful nomination and re-election as AfDB President.
“Grateful,” Adesina wrote in a heartfelt message shared on his verified X account.
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“I visited President Buhari to express my deep appreciation for his incredibly supporting my nomination by President Jonathan for election as President, African Development Bank.”
According to the renowned development economist, Buhari’s backing went beyond mere formal endorsement and was crucial during politically turbulent times when his leadership at the bank came under scrutiny. “He strongly stood by me in difficult times, which ensured my re-election. Thank you Sir.” Adesina added.
Dr. Adesina was first elected as AfDB President in 2015, making history as the first Nigerian to hold the position. His re-election in 2020 came after a period of political challenges and allegations, which were later cleared by an independent review panel.
Throughout that period, Buhari was one of the African leaders who defended Adesina’s integrity and leadership.The visit is widely viewed as a rare and symbolic gesture, underscoring the importance of statesmanship, continuity, and cross-party unity in African leadership.
Adesina was originally nominated by former President Goodluck Jonathan, a member of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), yet received strong and vocal support from Buhari of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The gesture by Adesina serves as a reminder of the power of unity and support in driving continental leadership, especially in institutions critical to Africa’s development.
While the meeting was private, sources close to both statesmen described it as warm and reflective, with both men exchanging views on Africa’s economic future and Nigeria’s role in shaping it.
Dr. Adesina, a former minister of Agriculture continues to serve at the helm of the AfDB with a vision to “build Africa back better,” especially in the wake of global economic shocks and the continent’s recovery efforts.
 Group, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, has publicly expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the immediate past President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari for the unwavering support he received during his journey to becoming — and remaining — the leader of Africa’s foremost financial institution.){kind=link}