President of the African Development Bank (AfDB),Akinwumi Adesina, has
said former President Muhammadu Buhar stood by him in tough and difficult times.
Adesina stated after visiting Buhari in his residence in Kaduna on Thursday.
Ina statement, Adesina said the major purpose for the visit was to offer thanks to Buhari for his steadfast support throughout the election processes for the AfDB presidency.
Adesina noted that Buhari played a major role in his nomination as AfDB president, even though he was initially nominated by former President Goodluck Jonathan for the position.
“He strongly stood by me in difficult times, which ensured my re-election. Thank you Sir,” Adesina was quoted as saying.
The statement said Adesina recounted how, upon arriving in one of the countries for the initial election campaign, he was reminded that Jonathan— who had nominated him — was leaving office.
Describing himself as a “stranded candidate,” Adesina noted that he arranged to meet with the then-incoming Buhari.
At the meeting, Buhari recollected the first time he had an encounter with Adesina saying he had long admired the AFDB’s career and integrity.
“I always look at people as Nigerians, and if they need assistance, I support them on their merit,” Buhari said.
Adesina is scheduled to finish his tenure as president of the AfDB by September.
