Buhari Felicitates with Adesina On AfDB Re-Election

President Buhari has congratulated Akinwumi Adesina on his re-election as President of the African Development Bank (AfDB).

Adesina who was unanimously returned as President earlier on Thursday during the bank’s 55th Annual Meetings, which was being held virtually due to COVID-19 restrictions, received commendation from Buhari who said “He deserves it.”

In a statement signed by Femi Adesina, Special Assistant to President Buhari on media said the presidents applauds the victory of Akinwumi as well as extends appreciation to the African Union for its endorsement of the AfDB President much earlier, and to shareholders of the bank who worked tirelessly to ensure the return of the visionary leader.

“The President rejoices with family, friends and professional colleagues of Dr Adesina over the re-election, while commending members of staff and Board of Governors of the AfDB for their consistent support for the former Nigerian Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, and his management team.

“President Buhari believes Dr Adesina’s versatility, experience at both national and international engagements, will be further deployed to energize the pan-African financial institution, urging him to remain focused and steadfast in pursuing the noble goals of making life better for Africans through various development plans, already captured as High 5s,” the Presidency statement added.

The presidential spokeman said that the news came during the Council of State meeting, which was attended by former heads of state, Senate President, governors, some Ministers, and senior government officials.

It would be recalled that Adesina’s re-election was smeared in controversy after he was charged with alleged ethical violations. But amidst the controversy, President Buhari endorsed Adesina, assuring him of the country’s support.

The multiple investigations into the the wrong doing of Adesina eventually cleared him of all the charges preferred against him thereby paving the way for his re-election.