![[OPINION] AfDB And Adesina, The Optimist-in-Chief – Reuben Abati](https://summitpostnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ADB-President-Dr.-Akinwunmi-Adesina.webp)
“Dr. Adesina was elected as the 8th President of the Bank on May 18, 2015, and he assumed office in September 2015, he was the first Nigerian to be so elected in the history of the institution. Adesina’s emergence as President of the AfDB in 2015 was a historic moment for Nigeria, and a defining moment for Adesina himself, personally and professionally. He was re-elected for a second 5-year term in office on August 27, 2020, with 100% of the votes cast, yet another remarkable achievement. He has now been succeeded, effective yesterday, September 1, 2025, by Dr. Sidi Ould Tah from Mauritania who was elected on May 29, 2025. As part of the send-forth activities to mark his retirement, the Staff Council of the African Development Bank Group organized a farewell party for Dr. Adesina this past weekend in Abidjan, Cote D’Ivoire. On Saturday, August 30, there was a grand event at the Sofitel Hotel Ivoire attended by quite an impressive crowd. On Sunday, August 31, there was a Dinner by Friends of Dr. Adesina at the Ivoire Trade Centre, Cocody, Abidjan to celebrate what was titled “A Decade of Excellence.”
Adesina’s story is the story of how a man can make a difference and transform a continent. He is an African “Optimist-in-chief”, a pan-Africanist, who sees opportunities where others see challenges and difficulties, a diligent, hardworking leader who believes that Africa can and must lead its own development agenda with originality, faith, and authenticity. Where others saw doubts, Adesina saw opportunities for action, and renewal.
Reading Dr. Adesina in his own words strikes a deeper chord about his unrelenting optimism about Africa, and his belief that Africa is the last frontier which only needs to unlock its possibilities for growth and integration.
Dr. Akinwumi Adesina now steps down as AfDB President leaving behind a strong impression as a people-oriented leader, known for his common touch and empathy among AfDB staff.”
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