The Corporate Council on Africa has bestowed its prestigious 2025 Distinguished Economic Leader Award upon African Development Bank President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, in recognition of his decade-long leadership transforming Africa's development trajectory and improving the lives of over 565 million people across the continent.
The prestigious recognition was conferred upon the president on Monday 24 June at the opening ceremony of the high-profile U.S.-Africa Business Summit, which drew 2,000 delegates including government and business leaders alongside distinguished delegates, including seven Heads of State, multiple Prime Ministers, the diplomatic community, and leaders from key regional organizations.
Council Deputy Chairman Jean Raymond Boulle presented the award, highlighting how the African Development Bank has transformed into a globally respected institution and partner of choice under Adesina's leadership, delivering measurable results across Africa.
A decade of transformative action
"Today, we celebrate Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, who as the president of the African Development Bank for the past decade, has advanced the Bank in transforming critical sectors to develop Africa through the High 5s development priorities (Feed Africa, Light up Africa, Industrialise Africa, Integrate Africa, and Improve the Quality of Life for the people of Africa)," said Boulle.
The African Development Bank's signature High 5s initiative, spearheaded by Dr. Adesina, has delivered a measurable impact across the continent, positively transforming the lives of more than 565 million people. This ambitious framework aligns strategically with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, demonstrating Africa's commitment to global development objectives.
The Corporate Council on Africa said as Dr. Adesina approaches the completion of his second and final five-year presidential term on August 31, his decade-long tenure has been marked by catalyzing groundbreaking projects across the Bank's five strategic priorities while successfully mobilizing unprecedented levels of investment for African development.
Boulle emphasized that "Africa's economic trajectory has been revamped, making it a more attractive destination for businesses, as well as ensuring stronger trade...ensuring mutual prosperity for the people of Africa, and increased partnerships, including with the United States."
In accepting the award, Dr. Adesina expressed deep appreciation for the recognition and reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to further expanding his engagement to advance Africa's development endeavors, signaling continued dedication to the continent's progress beyond his current tenure.
