Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, the outgoing President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), has been appointed to the Council of Advisors of the World Food Prize Foundation.
The announcement was made on Tuesday in New York by the Foundation’s President, Mashal Husain, who praised Adesina’s lifelong dedication to agricultural innovation and sustainable development across Africa.
Adesina, a globally respected development economist, will complete his second five-year term as AfDB President in September. He was awarded the prestigious World Food Prize in 2017 for his transformative work in African agriculture.
“President Adesina embodies the values and vision of Dr. Norman Borlaug—transforming bold ideas into tangible impact,” Husain said. “His lifelong commitment to agricultural innovation and sustainability makes him an extraordinary addition to our Council of Advisors.”
In response, Adesina expressed deep appreciation for the appointment, describing it as a personal honor.
“Dr. Norman Borlaug was not only a mentor but a personal inspiration whose passion for ending hunger shaped my journey,” he said. “I look forward to advancing bold, science-driven solutions that uplift farmers and feed nations.”
The Council of Advisors comprises global leaders, including former heads of state, ministers, and experts in food and agriculture. The council plays a key role in guiding the Foundation’s mission to promote food security, in line with Dr. Borlaug’s legacy.
Before leading the AfDB, Adesina served as Nigeria’s Minister of Agriculture, where he introduced landmark reforms that boosted food production and expanded access to financing for farmers. At the AfDB, he championed the “High 5” Agenda—focusing on energy, food security, industrialization, regional integration, and improving quality of life across the continent.
The World Food Prize, established by Nobel Peace Laureate Dr. Norman Borlaug, honors individuals who have made significant contributions to improving the quality, quantity, or availability of food in the world.
