After his recognition as the 2023 recipient of the prestigious ‘Obafemi Awolowo Prize for Leadership’, the outgoing African Development Bank (AfDB) president, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, once more received commendation from the Obafemi Awolowo Foundation.

In a commendation letter signed by its executive director, Dr. O. Awolowo Dosumu, and issued to our correspondent on Monday, the foundation hailed the economic policies of the bank introduced by the outgoing president, particularly the “High 5s”, saying it transformed lives for millions across Africa.

According to him, the “High 5s” agenda prioritised lighting up and powering Africa, feeding the continent, industrialising Africa, integrating Africa, and improving the quality of life for Africans.

Dosumu said such initiatives have shifted the narrative of what is possible in Africa.

He described Adesina as a proud son of the Yoruba nation, Nigeria, and Africa, noting that his recognition as the 2023 recipient of the prestigious Obafemi Awolowo Prize for Leadership underscores the significance of his work.

“The African Development Bank has become not just a financial institution but a bold instrument of transformation.

“Initiatives such as the High 5s, Feed Africa, Desert to Power, and your steady focus on mobilising capital for climate and infrastructure financing have created pathways for millions and shifted the narrative about what is possible in Africa,” Dosumu said.

Dosumu opined that the outgoing president would be remembered for years for his stewardship at the bank and called for consolidation.