The Corporate Council on Africa (CCA) has lauded the decade-long leadership of Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, outgoing President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), commending his transformative impact on Africa’s development through strategic initiatives that have spurred growth across critical sectors of member nations.
The recognition came as Dr. Adesina was conferred with the prestigious 2025 Distinguished Economic Leader Award during the opening ceremony of the high-profile U.S.-Africa Business Summit, held in Washington, D.C.
The event drew over 2,000 delegates, including seven African heads of state, prime ministers, senior government officials, business leaders, diplomats, and representatives from key regional organizations.
In his remarks, Jean Raymond Boulle, Deputy Chairman of the Corporate Council on Africa, praised Dr. Adesina for elevating the AfDB into a globally respected institution and a preferred partner for Africa’s development.
“Today, we celebrate Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, who, as President of the African Development Bank for the past decade, has driven the institution’s transformative agenda, advancing critical sectors through the Bank’s High 5s priorities — Feed Africa, Light Up Africa, Industrialize Africa, Integrate Africa, and Improve the Quality of Life for Africans,” Boulle stated.
He said under Adesina’s leadership, the High 5s initiative has delivered tangible results, directly benefiting over 565 million people across the continent.
According to him, the initiative’s alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) underscores Africa’s commitment to global development objectives.
As Dr. Adesina prepares to conclude his second and final term on August 31, 2025, the CCA noted that his tenure has been defined by ground-breaking projects and the successful mobilization of record levels of investment for Africa’s development.
Boulle emphasized that the Bank’s efforts have significantly enhanced Africa’s economic prospects, making the continent a more attractive destination for business and trade.
“Africa’s economic trajectory has been revamped, fostering greater business opportunities, stronger trade ties, and mutual prosperity for its people. This has also deepened partnerships, including with the United States,” Boulle added.
Upon receiving the award, Dr. Adesina expressed profound gratitude and reaffirmed his continued dedication to Africa’s development beyond his presidency.
“I am deeply honoured by this recognition, which reflects the collective efforts of the African Development Bank, our member countries, and development partners. While my tenure as President may be concluding, my commitment to Africa’s progress remains unwavering. I will continue to engage in initiatives that drive sustainable development and prosperity for our continent.”
