Akinwunmi Adesina, the President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), has denied recent media reports suggesting he intends to run for Nigeria’s presidency in 2027. The speculations arose following an interview where Adesina was purportedly hinting at his presidential ambitions.
In a clarification posted on his X handle on Thursday, Adesina stated that his comments were misinterpreted and misrepresented by several Nigerian media outlets. He explained that what he actually said was that he would be “available to serve in any capacity, globally, in Africa, anywhere, including his own country,” after his tenure at AfDB concludes in May 2025.
He urged the public to review the full interview, which he emphasized was available online, and assured that nowhere did he state an intention to run for the office of the President of Nigeria. Adesina reiterated that he had always been open to contributing in various capacities, but his commitment to AfDB’s mission remains his primary focus.
A History of Denying Presidential Aspirations
This is not the first time Adesina has distanced himself from presidential speculation. Ahead of Nigeria’s 2023 presidential elections, the AfDB president had issued a statement ruling himself out of the race. At the time, Adesina expressed his deep gratitude for the public’s support but stated that his responsibilities at AfDB did not permit him to consider the presidency.
He emphasized his dedication to his role as AfDB president and reaffirmed his mission of supporting Africa’s economic development and integration.
Adesina’s Legacy and Future Role
Adesina, who served as Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture under President Goodluck Jonathan, has led AfDB since 2015 and was re-elected for a second term in 2020. As his tenure at AfDB nears its end in May 2025, speculation around his next steps continues, but he has made it clear that his focus remains on Africa’s development and the work of AfDB.
While Adesina has not ruled out future public service roles, he has firmly denied any intentions to run for Nigeria’s presidency in 2027. His clarification puts to rest any rumors about his potential candidacy, reaffirming his commitment to the African Development Bank’s mission.
