Akinwumi Adesina is one of Africa’s most respected leaders in economic development and agriculture. As the President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr. Adesina has played a crucial role in transforming the economic landscape of Africa.

His leadership has been a driving force in addressing key challenges across the continent, including infrastructure deficits, poverty, and food insecurity.

Before his appointment at the AfDB, Dr. Adesina made significant strides in Africa’s agricultural sector as the Minister of Agriculture in Nigeria.

His innovative policies and reforms, such as the Agricultural Transformation Agenda, revolutionized Nigeria’s agriculture, increasing productivity, improving access to financing for farmers, and creating millions of jobs in rural areas.

His commitment to agriculture and rural development earned him the prestigious World Food Prize in 2017 for his leadership in transforming the agricultural sector.

At the helm of AfDB, Dr. Adesina has continued to focus on Africa’s sustainable development, particularly through investments in infrastructure, renewable energy, and the development of human capital.

He has been instrumental in driving the High 5s, a set of goals that aim to improve the quality of life for Africans through initiatives focused on lighting up and powering Africa, feeding Africa, industrializing Africa, integrating Africa, and improving the quality of life for Africans.

Dr. Adesina’s visionary leadership has garnered him international recognition, and his ability to inspire change and catalyze action within African economies continues to shape the continent’s future.

Under his leadership, AfDB has been at the forefront of funding major projects in sectors such as infrastructure, technology, and agriculture, pushing Africa towards greater economic self-sufficiency and prosperity.

A staunch advocate for gender equality and youth empowerment, Dr. Adesina believes that Africa’s future lies in harnessing the potential of its young population. His commitment to innovation, sustainable development, and social impact has cemented his place as one of the continent’s most influential leaders.