Prime Business AfricaIn recognition of his remarkable leadership and outstanding contributions to development, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, the President of the African Development Bank, has been honored with the prestigious 2024 Obafemi Awolowo Prize for Leadership Award. The former Nigerian Minister of Agriculture from 2011 to 2015 received the coveted prize on Wednesday, 6th March 2024, at the ceremony held at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.
A Prestigious Event Celebrating Leadership Excellence
The event was a grand affair, attended by esteemed dignitaries, including former heads of state from Nigeria and other countries, state governors, traditional rulers, and other distinguished Nigerians. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and anticipation as the nation celebrated one of its most prominent and accomplished leaders.
Former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (Retd.), praised Adesina as a brilliant man who embodies the best qualities of Nigeria. In his remarks, Gowon stated:
“The choice of Dr. Akinwumi Adesina can only be described as having been very well done. He represents the best of Nigeria, hardworking, diligent, brilliant, forward-looking, and deeply patriotic. His achievements at the African Development Bank have brought immense pride to our nation, and this award is a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional leadership.”
Commendations from Eminent Personalities and Institutions
Former Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Emeka Anyaoku, commended the choice of Adesina as the fourth recipient of the prestigious award, which was established in honor of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, one of Nigeria’s most revered statesmen and leaders.
“Out of the many reputable nominations received, members of the selection committee unanimously considered Dr. Akinwumi Adesina as having in his career to date, in a large measure, embodied the Chief Obafemi Awolowo attribute of visionary leadership, commitment to national development, and unwavering dedication to the upliftment of the masses,” Anyaoku stated.
The African Development Bank, under Adesina’s leadership, has played a crucial role in driving economic growth, reducing poverty, and promoting sustainable development across the African continent. His efforts have garnered widespread acclaim and recognition from various international organizations and institutions.
Past winners of the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo Prize for Leadership Award include Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, former South African President Thabo Mbeki, and renowned lawyer Aare Afe Babalola.
The event was graced by several esteemed personalities, including former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, while the incumbent President Bola Tinubu was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima. Several serving governors, including Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Alex Otti (Abia), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Usman Ododo (Kogi), and Mohammed Bago (Niger), were also in attendance, reflecting the national significance of the occasion.
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