Akinwunmi Adesina appreciates his supporters, dedicates second tenure as AfDB president

Following his swearing in for a second tenure as President of the Africa Development Bank (AfDB), Nigeria’s Akinwunmi Adesina has taken time to appreciate everyone who supported him throughout his campaign for the coveted position.

Tweeting on Tuesday evening, Adesina said, “Today, I was sworn in for my second 5-year term as President of the African Development Bank. I just wanted to say a very big “Thank you” to all of you for your extraordinary support, prayers and good wishes. May God bless each and everyone of you!”

He also dedicated his second term in office to God, whilst asking that God should grant him the wisdom to that will help Africa to thrive and prosper.

God, as I start my second term as President of the African Development Bank, I humble myself before you. I ask that you will grant me wisdom and that Africa will thrive and prosper. Make Africa shine. pic.twitter.com/uMpoaX0XA1

— Akinwumi A. Adesina (@akin_adesina) September 1, 2020

Akinwunmi Adesina’s re-election as President of the AfDB in late August was widely celebrated by Nigerians due to the controversies that heralded it. As you may well know, Adesina was recently embroiled in a major scandal after some whilstleblowers accused him of abusing his office. About 16 allegations were leveled against him, bothering on alleged unethical conducts, questionable appointments and contract awards.

Following the allegations, the AfDB’s board conducted an internal investigation which cleared Adesina’s name. However, the findings of the report was rejected by the United State’s Treasury Secretary, Steven Mnuchin. Mnuchin called for an independent review of the findings, which review which was conducted and eventually cleared Adesina of any wrongdoing.

Throughout the investigations, Adesina, who was a one-time Minister in Nigeria, received wide-spread support from several African presidents (including President Muhammadu Buhari), and former Presidents. He will now continue to lead the multilateral organisation for the next five years.