As the African Development Bank (AfDB) holds its 2025 Annual Meetings in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, from May 26 to 30, the spotlight shines on a significant leadership transition.
At a special breakfast session with journalists on the opening day, the outgoing President of the Bank, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, reflected on his ten-year journey, describing it as more than just a professional role—it was a calling.
“This is not a job. If anyone is looking for a job, please don’t take it. This is not a job. This is a mission,” Adesina said, candidly expressing the all-consuming nature of the role. “As my wife Grace and staff would tell you, for ten years I have had no life. Completely zero. I worked every single day. Every single step.”
Adesina’s decade-long presidency, which began in 2015, has been marked by a strong sense of purpose and unwavering commitment. “Serving as President of the African Development Bank Group has been the greatest honor of my life,” he noted. “It has been a decade of relentless purpose, of enduring passion, and of tireless service.”
The event, held in the presence of journalists covering the Annual Meetings, was an emotional yet triumphant moment for Adesina. “This is one of my favorite moments of every Annual Meeting. It gives me the opportunity to speak frankly, reflect deeply, and thank you sincerely,” he told attendees, underscoring that the 2025 Meetings represent “the final chapter of a remarkable decade of transformation.”
Unprecedented Achievements Under His Watch
Under Adesina’s leadership, the African Development Bank has experienced exponential growth and expanded its development impact. One of the most notable achievements was the Bank’s capital increase from $93 billion in 2015 to an impressive $318 billion. Additionally, the African Development Fund witnessed a record replenishment of $8.9 billion.
Perhaps the most profound testament to his legacy is the tangible impact of the Bank’s interventions. “The High 5s have impacted on the lives of over 565 million people across Africa,” he proudly stated, referring to the five strategic priorities launched at the start of his tenure: Light Up and Power Africa, Feed Africa, Industrialize Africa, Integrate Africa, and Improve the Quality of Life for the People of Africa.
“These are not just figures. They are futures. They are hopes realized,” he emphasized, reinforcing that the Bank’s investments have touched the lives of over half a billion Africans.
In his address, Adesina made a heartfelt acknowledgment of the role of the media in supporting the Bank’s vision and communicating its impact. “Your role is more important than ever,” he said. “You are not just observers. You are amplifiers of Africa’s voice. You shape the narrative. You challenge us. You inform the world.”
He revisited a call he made at the All-Africa Media Leaders’ Summit in Nairobi in 2024, urging the creation of robust African media platforms capable of telling Africa’s story credibly and globally. “Africa needs media platforms that will credibly amplify positive continental narratives on a global scale,” he reiterated.
A Global Institution with an African Soul
Adesina reflected on the transformation of the Bank during his leadership, pointing to its growing international influence. “The African Development Bank you have today is not the African Development Bank you used to have. This is a global institution now,” he asserted.
As the institution prepares for a change in leadership with a new president to be elected during the Annual Meetings, Adesina shared words of guidance for his successor.
“The responsibility of that leader is to build on the past, to look far into the future, and to find within themselves what courage it takes to stand up for Africa’s interests. To make sure that Africa’s voice is never silenced on issues that matter globally and where it matters globally.”
Dr. Akinwumi Adesina,
Dr. Adesina’s departure on September 1, 2025, will mark the end of an era. But he remains confident in the Bank’s direction. “Leadership may change, but the mission remains. The Bank’s direction is clear, its resolve strong, and its commitment to Africa’s development unshakable.”
As the curtains gradually close on his Presidency, Adesina leaves behind a legacy of transformative impact, visionary leadership, and unrelenting dedication to Africa’s development. His words and achievements echo a singular truth: it was never just a job—it was a mission.
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