Nigerian out going Minister of Agriculture – Dr. Akinwumi Adesina has emerged as the new President of the African Development Bank, after a heavily contested election which took place in Abidjan.
Adesina who won with a total of 58.10% of the votes cast, was selected as Africa’s choice over seven other contenders from other African countries.
Taking to his twitter handle, the elated President-elect who will be taking over from Donald Kaberuka, expressed his appreciation for the appointment – “I am honoured and humbled by the support I have received and the confidence placed in me. Our best days are ahead!”
Other candidates who contested for the election include – Birama Boubacar Sidibé – Mali, Thomas Z. Sakala – Zimbabwe, Thomas Z. Sakala – Sierra Leone, Cristina Duarte – Cape Verde, Kordjé Bedoumra – Chad, Jaloul Ayed – Tunisia, Sufian AHMED – Ethopia
Congratulating Adesina on his victory, the out-going President, AfDB, Donald kaberuka also using the twitter media said – “Congratulations Adesina, this is a mission, it is not just a job. Good luck!”
The African Development Bank operates under the leadership of the President, who serves as the legal representative of the Bank, the Chairperson of the Board of Directors, and the Chief of Staff of the Bank. The President conducts the current business of the Bank, under the direction of the Board of Directors. The President is elected by the Board of Governors and serves a 5-year term, renewable once.
