The outgoing President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Akinwumi Adesina, has hinted at the possibility of contesting for Nigeria’s presidency in 2027, declaring that he is “available to serve” after his tenure at the bank.
Adesina, a former Minister of Agriculture under ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, made this statement during an interview with Arise Television’’s Rufai Oseni. He affirmed his readiness to serve in any capacity, whether globally, in Africa, or in Nigeria, emphasizing his deep commitment to the country.
When asked about his plans after leaving the AfDB and whether he would consider running for Nigeria’s presidency, Adesina reflected on his patriotism and life’s purpose:
“Many years ago, when I was in graduate school in Nigeria, I had an opportunity to obtain a U.S. visa and eventually U.S. citizenship. But I refused, not because I don’t like America. My kids are Americans, born there.
“But I told a colleague of mine, ’this green passport, my Nigerian passport, I will never trade it for anything. It gives me a lot of grief at international borders, but God did not make a mistake in making me a Nigerian or an African. I will live and walk as a Nigerian, and that passport will be respected just like any other in the world”
Adesina stressed that his ultimate goal is to improve lives and bring transformation, stating that service to people is what truly brings him happiness.
“The only thing that makes me happy is seeing lives transform and change; that’s what gives me satisfaction. So, I will be available to serve in any capacity, whether globally, in Africa, or in my own country, Nigeria”.
In a lighthearted moment, Adesina referenced Nigerian pop star Davido’s hit song, Unavailable, but suggested a different version for himself:
“I love Davido’s song, “I’m unavailable, dem no dey see me. But in my case, when it comes to service, I’d ask Davido to change it to “I’m available, they will see me.
While Adesina stopped short of directly declaring his candidacy for Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election, his remarks strongly suggest that he is considering a political future after his time at AfDB.
Adesina was first elected AfDB President in 2015 and secured a second term in 2020. His tenure at the bank has been marked by significant economic initiatives across Africa, and his leadership has earned him international recognition.
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