Akinwumi Adesina, the outgoing president of the African Development Bank (AfDB), has sparked fresh speculation about his political future, hinting at the possibility of running for the office of the President of Nigeria after his tenure at the bank ends.
In a recent interview with Arise Television’s news anchor Rufai Oseni, Adesina, who has held the position of AfDB President since 2015, remarked that he would be available to serve in any capacity, both in Nigeria and beyond, after his current role concludes. This statement has led many political analysts and Nigerians alike to speculate that he might be eyeing the presidency of his home country.
“I Am Available”
Adesina was unequivocal about his future prospects. “I will be available to serve in any capacity, globally, in Africa, anywhere, including my own country, Nigeria,” he said, indicating that his political ambitions could extend beyond the African Development Bank. His words, laced with a sense of duty and service, left many wondering whether a presidential bid is on the horizon.
The AfDB President’s comment is not entirely new. Over the years, he has built a reputation as a competent and effective leader in Africa, notably turning around the fortunes of the AfDB, which has seen tremendous growth under his stewardship. He was re-elected to a second term in 2020 and has been at the forefront of promoting Africa’s economic development, especially through strategic initiatives such as the African Investment Forum.
But as he nears the end of his term, many are asking: what’s next for Adesina?
A Record of Service
Adesina’s career has always been marked by a commitment to service. Prior to his current role, he served as Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture during the administration of President Goodluck Jonathan, where he was credited with spearheading reforms that boosted the country’s agricultural sector. His work there won him international acclaim, making him a well-respected figure on the global stage.
In the interview, Adesina reflected on his roots and his love for Nigeria, expressing deep pride in his Nigerian heritage. Despite having been offered opportunities to acquire U.S. citizenship years ago, he remained steadfast in his loyalty to his home country. “This passport is a Nigerian passport, a green passport. I cannot and will never trade it for anything,” Adesina passionately declared, highlighting his unwavering commitment to Nigeria and Africa.
The Green Passport
Adesina’s statement about his Nigerian passport carries significant weight in the context of Nigeria’s often difficult relationship with international recognition. Nigerians, including Adesina himself, are sometimes subjected to harsh scrutiny at international borders. Nevertheless, Adesina insists that his Nigerian identity is something he cherishes deeply. “God did not make a mistake in making me a Nigerian,” he added, underscoring his deep sense of pride in his nationality.
He went on to share a candid recollection of the challenges Nigerians often face abroad, recounting how, despite being with his American-born children, he himself is sometimes treated differently at airports and immigration counters. “My kids are Americans, and they were born there, but I remember telling a colleague of mine that this passport, this green passport, will be respected just like everybody else in the world,” Adesina shared.
“Nothing Gives Me Greater Satisfaction”
Adesina’s philosophy has always been one of selfless service. Throughout his career, he has been driven by the desire to see lives transformed, whether through his work at the Ministry of Agriculture or his leadership at AfDB. In the interview, he reiterated that the most fulfilling aspect of his career is seeing positive changes in the lives of the people he serves.
“The only thing that makes me happy is nothing else than seeing the lives of people transform and change,” he remarked, echoing his belief that true leadership comes from a desire to improve the lives of others. He likened his purpose to that of an instrument in the hands of a higher power, describing his career as part of a divine plan for service to humanity.
In that sense, his potential presidential ambitions would not just be about power for its own sake, but about fulfilling what he sees as a higher calling to help Nigerians and Africans realize their potential.
Could Adesina Be Eyeing the Presidency?
Adesina’s comments have fueled speculation about his future political plans. Nigeria’s 2023 general elections saw a significant shuffle in the political landscape, and many are wondering if a figure like Adesina, with his wealth of experience and reputation, could rise to the occasion in 2027.
Political analysts have suggested that Adesina, with his track record of international success, may have the right credentials to challenge Nigeria’s current political order. His leadership style, which combines technical expertise with a deep sense of social responsibility, has earned him respect both within Nigeria and on the world stage.
Some have pointed to the growing disillusionment among Nigerians with the current political elite as a potential opportunity for a fresh face to emerge in the upcoming presidential race. Adesina, with his technocratic background and focus on economic transformation, could be seen as a candidate who offers something different from the traditional political establishment.
Davido and a New Song for Service
In a lighter moment during the interview, Adesina quoted a popular song by Nigerian singer Davido, “I’m unavailable, dem no dey see me,” as a way of reflecting on his personal and professional life. However, Adesina humorously proposed a change to the lyrics in the context of public service: “I’ll be available to serve in God’s hands for anything that God has in store for my life.”
The playful moment aside, Adesina’s message was clear: he remains open to any service opportunity that aligns with his mission to help people. His words seem to indicate that while he may not yet have made a firm decision about running for president, he is certainly not ruling it out.
What’s Next for Adesina?
With his tenure at AfDB coming to an end, Akinwumi Adesina’s next steps will be closely watched by Nigerians and the global community. Whether or not he will choose to enter the political arena remains to be seen, but his recent remarks suggest that he is considering all options, including a potential run for president.
As Nigeria continues to face challenges of governance, economic development, and security, figures like Adesina, with both a global perspective and a deep-rooted connection to Nigeria, could be poised to offer the kind of leadership that the country needs in the years ahead.