Fondly referred to as the ‘World Food Prize Laureate’, Akinwumi Adesina is a Nigerian economist and politician who has carved a niche for himself in Nigeria’s political arena. Adesina is a renowned figure in the agricultural world, who has executed various initiatives towards a food-secured future in Nigeria.
Early Life and Educational Background
Akinwumi Adesina was born in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, on February 6, 1960. He had his primary education at St. Paul’s Primary School in Lagos State before proceeding to the Bolade Grammar School in Oshodi, Lagos. He then proceeded to Obafemi Awolowo University (formerly known as the University of Ife) where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics.
To further hone his skills, he obtained a master’s degree in Agricultural Economics at Purdue University and a Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Political Career
Akinwumi Adesina is a man of many firsts in Nigeria’s political arena. He served as Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development from 2011 to 2015. During his time as Minister of Agriculture, Adesina introduced various initiatives that revolutionized Nigeria’s agricultural sector, reducing the country’s importation of food and creating jobs for Nigerians.
He was also a significant driver of Africa’s Green Revolution, implementing policies across Africa aimed at transforming the agricultural sector, strengthening the private sector, and addressing food security challenges. His efforts led to his nomination and eventual election as the President of the African Development Bank in 2015, a position he still occupies.
Awards and Nominations
Throughout his laudable career, Akinwumi Adesina has received numerous awards and recognition for his outstanding contributions to the development of agriculture and the economic growth of Nigeria.
- World Food Prize Laureate (2017)
- Forbes Africa Person of the Year (2013)
- YARA Prize for the African Green Revolution (2016)
- Wits Business School’s Lifetime Achievement Award (2019)
- Honorary Doctorate from the University of Alberta in Canada (2016)
Personal Life
Akinwumi Adesina is a happily married man with two children. He is known to keep his personal life private and away from media attention for the most part.
Net Worth and Assets
Akinwumi Adesina is one of Nigeria’s wealthy politicians, with a net worth estimated at $2.5 million. In Nigerian Naira, his net worth is approximately ₦948 million.
Converting his net worth to other currencies, he has a net worth of CAD 3.34 million, ZAR 34.6 million, INR 170.2 million, KES 207 million, GHS 13.8 million, and UGX 9.3 billion. With his incredible net worth, Akinwumi Adesina drives a range of luxurious cars and owns a tastefully furnished mansion in Lagos.
Social Media Accounts
Akinwumi Adesina is notably active on social media. You can follow him on his Twitter account @akin_adesina, LinkedIn profile, or check his Facebook page for updates on his latest activities.
Conclusion
Akinwumi Adesina is one of Nigeria’s distinguished politicians, with outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s agricultural sector. His impact has stretched beyond the shores of Nigeria to influence African development policies. Adesina is an inspiration to many, and his legacies are sure to impact future generations.