President Muhammadu Buhari has on Thursday lauded the re-election of the incumbent president of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr Akinwumi Adesina.
The embattled President Adesina was unanimously returned as President earlier on Thursday during the bank’s 55th Annual Meetings.
The election was held virtually due to COVID-19 restrictions.
In a statement signed by Presidential spokesman, Femi Adesina, President Buhari said news of the victory came during the Council of State meeting, which was attended by former heads of state, Senate President, governors, some Ministers, and senior government officials.
“He deserves it,” President Buhari said, leading a round of applause, after Secretary to Government of the Federation, Mr Boss Mustapha, announced the good news to the Council.
“The President extends appreciation to the African Union for its endorsement of the AfDB President much earlier, and to shareholders of the bank who worked tirelessly to ensure the return of the visionary leader,” the Presidential statement said.
Adesina’s re-election was mired in controversy after he was charged with alleged ethical violations.
Amid the controversy, President Buhari endorsed Adesina, assuring him of the country’s support.
And, after repeated investigations, the former Nigerian Agriculture Minister was cleared of all charges levelled against him, paving the way for his re-election.
“President Buhari believes Dr Adesina’s versatility, experience at both national and international engagements, will be further deployed to energize the pan-African financial institution, urging him to remain focused and steadfast in pursuing the noble goals of making life better for Africans through various development plans, already captured as High 5s,” the Presidency statement added.
“The President rejoices with family, friends and professional colleagues of Dr Adesina over the re-election while commending members of staff and Board of Governors of the AfDB for their consistent support for the former Nigerian Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, and his management team.
“While pledging full support of his government to ensure a successful tenure for the AfDB leadership, President Buhari prays that the Almighty God will continue to strengthen Dr Adesina and his team for the greater good to the continent.”
