Akinwumi Adesina, president of the African Development Bank (AfDB), has been named the first-ever ‘African of the Decade’ by the All African Business Leaders Awards (AABLA).
Adesina received the award on Saturday during the Africa Investment Forum (AIF), held in Rabat, Morocco.
He was awarded in recognition of his 10-year tenure — which ends next year — at the bank and various initiatives taken by the financial institution to improve lives across Africa.
The award recognised Adesina’s efforts to develop the continent and garner capital through his ‘High 5’ strategic initiatives: light up and power Africa, feed Africa, industrialise Africa, integrate Africa, and improve the lives of the people of Africa.
Adesina thanked Rakesh Wahi, ABN Group chairman, and his management for the accolade, “one of a string that have come since his assumption of the only African financial institution rated AAA by all the three major rating agencies: Moody’s, S&P and Fitch”.
“God did not make a mistake when he made me an African. I will leave as an African and I will do all I can, to my final breath, for Africa,” he said.
“When I die and it’s time for resurrection, I will ask God for permission to come out with an African flag.
“But awards are not just recognition nor are they just for you. They are a recognition for an army of believers who join you to do what you are doing.”
Adesina said it allows him to be inspired, motivated, more dedicated, and more relentless “with the vision that one has”.
