Man of Many Talents

Meet Akinwumi Adesina, a man of many talents; an economist, a farmer, a politician, and a humanitarian.

Born in the indigenous town of Ijebu-Igbo, Akinwunmi created a name for himself at an early age. He was an outstanding student of St. Michael’s Grammar School, and also the first person in his family to attend university. Adesina’s secondary school education laid the foundation for his success in later life. He learned the importance of hard work, dedication, and helping others. These are all qualities that have served him well in his career.

After graduating from St. Michael’s Grammar School, Adesina went on to study agricultural economics at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University). He worked his way through college by selling textbooks and tutoring students. He graduated with First Class Honors in 1981. He was awarded a scholarship to attend Purdue University, where he earned a Master’s degree and a Ph.D. In Agricultural Economics.

After graduating from Purdue, Adesina worked as an economist for the Rockefeller Foundation and the World Bank. He also served as a consultant to the Nigerian government on agricultural policy. In 2011, Adesina was appointed Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development by President Goodluck Jonathan. In this role, he was responsible for implementing a number of reforms that helped to improve the agricultural sector in Nigeria.

Adesina’s reforms included the introduction of a new agricultural credit scheme, the establishment of a national agricultural research institute, and the promotion of agricultural exports. These reforms helped to increase agricultural productivity in Nigeria by 60%.

In 2015, Adesina was elected President of the African Development Bank (AfDB). He is the first Nigerian to hold this position. As President of the AfDB, Adesina has been a strong advocate for agricultural development in Africa. He has also been a vocal critic of climate change and its impact on the continent.

Adesina has achieved many notable things in his career. He has been awarded the World Food Prize, the highest international award for individuals who have made outstanding contributions to improving global food security. He has also been named one of the 100 most influential people in the world by Time magazine.

Adesina is a true inspiration to all who know him. He is a role model for young Africans who aspire to make a difference in the world. He is also a reminder that anything is possible if you set your mind to it. He is also a testament to the power of education and hard work. He is an inspiration to us all, and we are lucky to have him as a leader.