The Oniru of Iruland, His Royal Majesty Oba AbdulWasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, has paid glowing tribute to Akinwumi Adesina, the outgoing President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), describing him as “a man of vision, impact, and uncommon dedication.”
King Oniru and Akinwumi Adesina
Speaking after attending Adesina’s farewell ceremony in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, where leaders and dignitaries gathered to honour his service, King Oniru noted that the occasion was not only a farewell but also the unveiling of a commemorative book, “Akinwumi A. Adesina: The Man, His Mandate, Mission and Message.”
King Oniru and Akinwumi Adesina
Reflecting on their shared history, the monarch recalled Adesina’s remarkable support to Lagos State during his time as Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture (2011–2015). “I recall with deep appreciation the unwavering support he extended when our paths first crossed during my tenure as Commissioner for Agriculture & Cooperatives,” King Oniru said. “Through the Agricultural Transformation Agenda, he championed initiatives such as the GES e-wallet, Rice Revolution, and Staple Crop Processing Zones, which broadened opportunities for Lagos farmers and strengthened value chains.”
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King Oniru and Akinwumi Adesina
Adesina’s decade-long tenure at AfDB (2015–2025) has been no less transformative. Under his leadership, the Bank launched the High 5 Priorities: Light Up and Power Africa, Feed Africa, Industrialize Africa, Integrate Africa, and Improve the Quality of Life for Africans. These initiatives mobilized billions in financing, expanded energy access, boosted food security through bold agricultural investments, and fostered regional infrastructure development.
From spearheading Africa’s largest renewable energy projects to championing the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) programme, Adesina’s presidency redefined the Bank as a driver of innovation and hope. His COVID-19 response package of $10 billion and bold stance on Africa’s debt sustainability further cemented his legacy as a development visionary.
“As Africa ushers in a new chapter, his footprints remain indelible,” King Oniru concluded. “His story will continue to inspire generations yet to come.”
