AfDB Grows Capital from $93bn to $318bn in 10 years as Adesina Bows Out

Dr Akinwumi Adesina AFDB President

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The African Development Bank (AfDB) recorded a surge in capital growth, expanding by 241.9% over the past decade.

This is just as the institution prepares for a leadership transition this week with a new president expected to succeed Dr. Akinwunmi Adesina.

The Bank’s capital has skyrocketed from $93 billion in 2015 to $318 billion in 2025, according to report.

President of the AfDB, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, pointed out the successful replenishment of the African Development Fund, which raised $8.9 billion, and underlined the significant impact the Bank has had, benefiting half a billion Africans through its investments over the past ten years.

He described his tenure as both consuming and profoundly fulfilling, saying it requires absolute commitment to lead an institution of such scale and influence.

“This is not a job. If anyone is looking for a job, please don’t take it. This is not a job. This is a mission,” he stated.

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“As my wife Grace and staff would tell you, for ten years I have had no life. Completely zero. I worked every single day. Every single step.”

The press briefing marked the opening event for the Bank’s 2025 Annual Meetings, taking place in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, from May 26 to May 30, where a new president will be elected to lead the institution.

Already, five candidates are in the race to succeed Adesina. They include Ms. Swazi Tshabalala from South Africa, Mr. Hott Amadou from Senegal, Dr. Samuel Munzele Maimbo from Zambia, Dr. Sidi Tah Ould from Mauritania, and Mr. Abbas Mahamat Tolli from Chad.

The successor to Nigeria’s Akinwumi Adesina will be decided on May 29, 2025, at the bank’s headquarters in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

No fewer than 6,000 delegates from 91 countries are being expected at the meeting which is going to be the largest gathering to be hosted by the bank.

As he prepares to hand over the leadership reins on September 1, 2025, Adesina told stakeholders that while leadership may change, the institution’s core mission remains unwavering.

“Leadership may change, but the mission remains. The Bank’s direction is clear, its resolve strong, and its commitment to Africa’s development unshakable,” he affirmed.