Akinwumi Adesina to Buhari: ‘Thank You, Sir, You Stood by Me in Difficult Times’

The President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, on Thursday, paid a courtesy visit to former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari at his residence in Kaduna. The visit was an emotional one, filled with expressions of deep appreciation and reflection on the journey that solidified Adesina’s position as a continental leader.

Akinwumi Adesina’s mission was clear: to personally thank Buhari for the crucial support he rendered during pivotal moments in his career. “You strongly stood by me in difficult times, which ensured my re-election. Thank you, Sir,” Adesina said, highlighting the significance of Buhari’s backing during challenges that could have derailed his leadership of Africa’s foremost development institution.

Buhari’s Crucial Support in 2020 Re-Election

In recounting his journey, Adesina detailed how Buhari’s endorsement proved decisive during his 2020 re-election campaign for the presidency of the AfDB. Although initially nominated in 2015 under the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, Adesina faced skepticism and political vulnerability when Jonathan left office and Buhari assumed power.

Akinwumi Adesina recalled a telling moment early in his first term when a foreign official questioned his future viability, noting that his nominator was no longer in power. Faced with uncertainty, Adesina reached out to President Buhari, who responded with remarkable statesmanship, pledging his full support despite political differences. “I was a stranded candidate, but President Buhari assured me of his support. That meant a great deal,” Adesina emphasized.

Statesmanship Beyond Political Lines

Former President Buhari, responding warmly during the visit, reiterated his philosophy of placing merit above politics. “I always look at people as Nigerians, and if they need assistance, I support them on their merit,” Buhari stated. He stressed that although Adesina was originally associated with the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), he judged him solely on competence, professionalism, and integrity.

This moment of bipartisan cooperation between Buhari and Adesina was widely seen as a model of national unity. It also stood as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing national interest and talent over partisan divisions, especially in advancing Nigeria’s and Africa’s broader development goals.

Akinwumi Adesina’s Global Impact and Leadership at AfDB

Dr. Akinwumi Adesina has, since assuming leadership at the AfDB, earned international acclaim for his visionary leadership and reformist agenda. Under his stewardship, the bank has significantly expanded its investments in critical areas such as infrastructure development, food security, energy access, and economic empowerment across Africa.

His leadership during crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, saw the AfDB launch major financial support programs that helped member countries cushion the effects of the global downturn. Adesina’s re-election in 2020 was seen as a testament to his outstanding performance, and Buhari’s early and consistent support was instrumental in enabling him to continue this work.

A Symbol of Unity and National Pride

Akinwumi Adesina’s visit to Buhari and the mutual exchange of admiration served as a refreshing narrative in Nigeria’s often politically charged atmosphere. It highlighted how leadership can transcend party affiliations for the sake of national pride and progress.

The AfDB president’s gesture not only underscored his personal gratitude but also served as a message to future generations of Nigerian leaders: that success is often a product of integrity, hard work, and the goodwill of those willing to look beyond politics. As Adesina continues to champion Africa’s development agenda, the support he received during his critical moments remains a foundational pillar of his enduring success.