TheCable

The Federal University of Technology (FUT) Minna, Niger state, on Wednesday, honoured Akinwumi Adesina, president of the African Development Bank (AfDB), with a doctoral degree for his contributions to national development.

Also honoured by the institution at its 30th convocation were Abdulsalam Abubakar, former head of state; Abdul Samad Rabiu, founder and chairman of BUA group, and Mele Kolo Kyari, chief executive officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC).

Speaking at the event, Adesina thanked President Muhammadu Buhari, former heads of state, and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar for their support towards ensuring he became AfDB president.

He said technology is crucial towards enhancing agriculture and that it could be used to improve medical, climate and security system in the country.

“I am especially grateful to H.E. general Abdulsalami Abubakar, who took me under his wings and lobbied extremely hard for me when I was seeking election for president of the African Development Bank in 2015. He spoke with the then President-elect Muhammadu Buhari who in turn provided me with strong support. He also reached out to President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to rally support behind me. You have been a key part of my success. I wish to use this time to acknowledge that publicly and thank you most sincerely. Your excellency, I am grateful sir,” he said.

“Technology drives the world. As minister of agriculture, I turned to the power of technology, mobile phones, to provide 15 million farmers with access to improved seeds and fertilizers, end corruption in the sector. It was revolutionary –the first, not only in Africa, but in the world. It helped Nigeria to produce a record additional 21 million metric tons of food. It boosted food security and expanded wealth for farmers, from the north east, north west, north central, southwest, east, and south-south of the country. It brought transparency and accountability in use of public funds.”

While congratulating the graduates, Adesina said the AfDB is working towards creating more jobs and preparing the youths to become leaders of the new digital economy.

Adesina with Abdulsalami

“The African Development Bank is preparing the youth of Africa to lead in the new digital economy. We have just provided $ 170 million to Nigeria to help drive its I-DICE initiative that will help expand the digital industry and grow jobs in the creative industries,” he added.

“You have been shaped in Minna, for export to other parts of Nigeria, Africa, and the world. Build a new Nigeria, a smart Nigeria, a dynamic Nigeria and a  globally competitive Nigeria. It is in your hands. Now go and make it happen! I wish you good success and God’s richest blessings. Congratulations!”