As the tenure of African Development Bank (AfDB) President, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, draws to a close this September, he recently paid a courtesy visit to former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari to express his profound gratitude for years of unwavering support.

During his time in office, President Buhari supported Adesina’s candidacy—originally put forward by former President Goodluck Jonathan—for the AfDB presidency. Significantly, Buhari also offered crucial backing during Adesina’s re-election campaign in 2020.

“He stood firmly by me during difficult times, which ensured my re-election. Thank you, Sir,” Adesina wrote in a social media post following their meeting.

The main purpose of Adesina’s visit was to personally thank Buhari for his steadfast support throughout both election campaigns.

Adesina recalled that, upon arriving in one of the countries during the initial campaign, he was reminded that President Jonathan—who had nominated him—was soon to leave office.

Finding himself in what he described as a “stranded candidate” situation, Adesina arranged to meet with the then incoming President Buhari.

During their recent meeting, Buhari reflected on that first encounter and noted that he had long admired Adesina’s career and integrity. Despite acknowledging Adesina’s affiliation with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Buhari pledged his full support for his AfDB presidency.

“I always regard people as Nigerians first. If they require assistance and are deserving, I support them on their merit,” Buhari remarked.

The former President also congratulated Adesina on the official launch of the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones initiative—a flagship programme under his leadership at the African Development Bank.