African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina on Wednesday made a case for his re-election as head of the institution, saying that he wanted to fulfill “his sense of duty and commitment.”
Adesina recalled that his current five-year term as head of the African Development Bank Group was marked by the implementation of five strategic priorities for the continent’s development, known as the “High 5s.”
“Five years ago, right here in Abidjan, you elected me president of the African Development Bank.
It was a huge responsibility to shoulder. I promised that I would work tirelessly to accelerate Africa’s development.
My vision, focused on the High 5 priorities, was my commitment, my promise, my compass,” Adesina said during a virtual session at the start of the Bank’s 2020 Annual Meetings.
“Time has passed so quickly,” he noted, citing the Bank’s achievements in the five years of his presidency:
18 million additional people now have access to electricity, 141 million people have received more advanced agricultural technology to improve food security, 15 million people have access to financing, 101 million now have access to improved transport, and 60 million people have gained access to water and sanitation.
With these positive results, President Adesina asked the Board of Governors to renew their trust in him for the next five years.
“Dear Governors, these Annual Meetings are my opportunity to offer you my services and seek a second term as President of the African Development Bank.
I do so with humility. I do so with an acute sense of duty and commitment. I do so to serve Africa and our Bank,” he stated.
Côte d’Ivoire President Alassane Ouattara, who witnessed Adesina’s election in 2015, welcomed the fact that his country was once again presiding over the electoral process.
He called on the Bank’s Governors, headed by Ivorian Minister of Planning for Planning and Development Kaba Nialé, to respect the articles governing the institution, before addressing a message to the candidate.
Ouattara wished Adesina well and said he hoped that his re-election bid was successful. Adesina is the sole candidate in the running.
The election will take place electronically on Thursday.
Latest Stories
-
Africa Development Council urges ECOWAS action amid Togo’s constitutional crisis
2 mins -
Situate power sector challenges within the context of the 4th Republic – Jantuah
30 mins -
Empowering Youth through IT Education: IT For Youth Ghana College leads the way
37 mins -
Trump criminal case: Full 12-person jury seated in Manhattan
50 mins -
Israel Gaza: US again warns against Rafah offensive
54 mins -
Man arrested in Poland over alleged Russia plot to kill Zelensky
57 mins -
Over 100 arrested as US college Gaza protest cleared
1 hour -
Justmoh Construction begins work on dualization of Takoradi-Agona Nkwanta road
1 hour -
MGL visits Dumor family following passing of Mawuena Trebarh
1 hour -
In Pursuit of Peace and Unity: Interfaith Leaders Promote Dialogue – Chief Doli-Wura to Africa Union
2 hours -
TEWU raises concern over quality of food served in SHS
3 hours -
Ghanaian students gear up for Robotics World Championship
3 hours -
Political interference makes public sector managers appear incompetent – Dr Manteaw
3 hours -
Police arrest truck driver alleged to have caused train crash
3 hours -
CAF Confederation Cup: Dreams FC depart to Cairo ahead of semis first leg against Zamalek
3 hours