President Bola Tinubu has extended his heartfelt congratulations to the President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Akinwumi Adesina, for being honored with the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo Prize for Leadership.

Adesina’s recognition places him among esteemed figures such as Nigeria’s Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, former South African President Thabo Mbeki, and lawyer-educationist Chief Afe Babalola, who have previously received this accolade.

In a statement released by his media aide, Ajuri Ngelale, President Tinubu praised Adesina’s visionary efforts aimed at transforming agriculture in Africa and ensuring food security across the continent.

He reminisced about the groundbreaking growth enhancement schemes introduced by Adesina during his tenure as Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, which revolutionized the country’s agricultural value chains.

President Tinubu acknowledged Adesina’s impeccable track record, unwavering integrity, and remarkable leadership in driving development, particularly in the agriculture sector. Adesina’s relentless commitment to agricultural advancement has earned him global recognition, including the prestigious World Food Prize in 2017.

Expressing his best wishes, President Tinubu wished Adesina continued success in his endeavors at the AfDB and strength in his service to Africa and humanity at large.

The award ceremony, held in Lagos on Wednesday, was attended by prominent African leaders, former and current governors, and distinguished personalities from various sectors.