By Dare Babarinsa
After 10 giddy, momentous and productive years, His Excellency, Dr Akinwumi Adesina, has now stepped down as the President of the African Development Bank, ADB. In that office, he was like a king, overseeing the development of the African people, ensuring that, despite the nasty bush wars that dotted the continent, we are moving forward. He is a pride to Nigeria, sharing the stage with such giants as Ngozi Okonjo Iweala and Amina Mohammed. Adesina glorious tenure reminds us of many other top Nigerians who have held international appointments with distinction and unblemished records: Daddy Onyeama, Simon Adebo, J.T.U Aguiyi Ironsi, Martin Luther Agwai, Adeoye Lambo, Emeka Anyaoku, Rilwan Lukman, Bola Ajibola and others. Their services on the world stage is an affirmation that greatness is the destiny of Nigeria.
I am happy with Adesina for many reasons. I first met him in 2021 when we both attended the funeral of Senator Olabiyi Durojaiye in Ijebu Igbo. Before that encounter, my cousin, Professor Adebiyi Daramola, the late Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Akure, had spoken so well about Adesina as a loyal and faithful friend. When Daramola fell ill, Adesina supported him to the very end. He sent a moving tribute when we took Daramola to Okemesi for burial. I salute Adesina for his humanity and sheer goodness. I wish him greater and more glorious years ahead.
