African Development Bank’s president, Akinwunmi Adesina, has rejected the Nigerian presidential nomination forms purchased for him by his supporters in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Mr Adesina, in a statement on Tuesday, said his current activities at the continental institution will not allow him to accept a presidential run.
Some Nigerians bought forms for Mr Adesina and urged him to run for president on the back of his economic and social achievements in Nigeria and across the continent.
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Mr Adesina said:
I am very touched by all who have gone to great extent, with such huge sacrifices, of their own volition, to consider me worthy to be proposed for potential consideration.
The coalition groups of youth, women, farmers, physically challenged and well-meaning Nigerians that have done this have expressed their genuine free will, political right, freedom of expression and association for my consideration, with the interest of Nigeria at heart.
While I am deeply honored, humbled and grateful for all the incredible goodwill, kindness, and confidence, my current responsibilities at this time do not allow me to accept to be considered.
I remain fully engaged and committed to the mission that Nigeria, Africa and all the non-African shareholders of the African Development Bank have given me for Africa’s development.
His statement is expected to conclude speculations about his interest in Nigeria’s presidency at the general elections scheduled for February 2023.
