Adesina mourns Adebanjo, Clark, Nwanze’s demise

Adesina mourns Adebanjo, Clark, Nwanze’s demise
President of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB), Akinwunmi Adesina, has paid tribute to three elder statesmen, who passedon recently.They are Pa Ayo Adebanjo, Chief Edwin Clark and Dr Kanayo Nwanze.

In his condolence messages, Adesina described the late Afenifere leader, Pa Adebanjo, as an “indomitable statesman” and a “fearless defender of democracy.”

According to him, Adebanjo’s restless quest for a more just, fairer and equitable society, with room for all, was powered by bold and visionary words, that pricked the conscience of the nation.
He acknowledged the deceased’s commitment to justice, equity and truth, and noted that his legacy would continue to inspire generations of Nigerians.

“Papa Adebanjo was a shining light, who for decades consistently spoke out on major challenges facing Nigeria. His restless quest for a more just, fairer and equitable society, with room for all, was powered by bold and visionary words that pricked the conscience of the nation.

“Papa Adebanjo’s life was defined by unwavering principles, selfless sacrifice and an unyielding commitment to the pursuit of a more just and united nation. He stood as a towering figure of progressive leadership, speaking truth to power and dedicating his years to the ideals oftrue federalism, good governance and national unity.”

In his tribute to the late leader of the Ijaw nation and the South-South, Chief Clark, Adesina described him as a “truly iconic” and “courageous” elder statesman.

He commended Clark’s advocacy for equity, justice and true federalism, and noted that his tireless efforts paved the way for progressive policies in Nigeria.

“Chief Edwin Clark was a moral compass and a fearless voice of conscience in national discourse, especially for social equity and justice. His unwavering commitment to true federalism, national unity, regional progress and development will continue to inspire generations of Nigerians.

“His tireless advocacy for resource control, environmental justice and regional development paved the way for progressive policies that continue to shape the socio- economic trajectory of Nigeria.”

In a tribute to a former president of International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and an ex-DG of Africa Rice, Dr Nwanze, Adesina described him as a “big brother, mentor, and friend.”

The AfDB boss commended Nwanze’s intellectual capacity, leadership and commitment to agricultural development in Africa, noting that his legacy would continue to inspire future generations of leaders.

“DrNwanze was an intellectual giant, a scientist of global renown, who was at the forefront of tackling global food security issues, especially in Africa. His leadership and vision helped to shape the direction of agricultural research and development in Africa, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders.

“A global advocate for inclusive agricultural research and development, Dr Nwanze played unforgettable leadership roles on the reforms of the CGIAR, and especially to ensure that its reforms strengthened the position and role of Africa.

“He was indefatigable, passionate, highly committed, principled and unwavering in his belief that global agricultural institutions should empower and strengthen national and regional agricultural research institutions. As chairman of the Forum for Agriculture in Africa (FARA), he directed the organisation to strengthen national and regional agricultural research centres.”