The President of the African Development Bank (AfDB) and Nigeria’s former minister, Dr. Akiwumi Adesina, on Saturday, 7th May 2022, joined the presidential race by obtaining copies of his Nomination and Expression of Interest forms to vie for the All Progressives Congress Presidential (APC) ticket.
It was reported that a coalition of 28 different groups consisting of Youth Arise Movement, Nigerians in Diaspora One Nigeria Group, Prudent Youth Association of Nigeria, women groups, farmers, people with disabilities and other civil society groups, raised the N100m fee to purchase the forms for the former minister. The coalition is reportedly led by Mohammed Saleh, who happens to be the head of the ‘One Nigeria Group’.
It could be recalled that one of the allies of the AfDB’s boss had earlier hinted that Dr Adesina may join the 2023 presidential race on the platform of the APC. He disclosed there were indications that he might pick the nomination and expression of interest forms next week before the deadline.
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The Convener, Diaspora Support Group of North America and Europe, Dr. Tony Bello who spoke with newsmen on Saturday, stated there was 100 per cent assurance that the support groups would pick up the forms for Adesina once he is drafted into the race.
According to Bello, the support groups were excited about the extended deadline for the sale of forms to May 10 by the APC, noting Adesina was most qualified, better prepared and the best option.
He said, “We believe if we are able to convince Adesina to join the presidential race, under the platform of APC, that would be the best. We are excited that there’s possibility that we will be bringing him on board. I don’t know if he’s a card-carrying member but we believe that Adesina would be considered by the leadership of the party.
“It is not too late for him to join. The sale of the expression of interest form and nomination form were extended, and there’s still time especially for those who are waiting to make decision.
“We are working with many other groups in diaspora, and we are calling on him to join the race. We work as a team, and we are aligning our interest. Other groups across Nigeria are also working hard to promote his candidacy. We have global influence and local support groups across Nigeria, and we are getting others to talk to him. It is a 50:50 chance at this stage, and there’s 100% chance that we will pick the forms for him.
“He has the capabilities to fix Nigeria. He has humble beginnings, and every Nigerian can relate to his life story especially how he grew up, and most importantly, his decisions have always been based on merit. He is a detribalized Nigerian. He will bring visionary leadership to the country and help restore past glory.
“On the African stage, he has demonstrated that he has what it takes. If Nigeria succeeds, then Africa succeeds. We have had conversation with him, we are getting others involved. We need a technocrat at this stage of our democracy. We are working with many persons underground.
Bello further stated, “Once we pick up the form, I believe we would have other persons who will join us. Groups such as Youths group including Youth Arise Movement, Prudent Youth, Women for a Secured Nation, Northern Coalition progressives, Diaspora Group of North America and Europe.
“We do not belong to any party, we are looking for the interest of Nigeria, and looking for who can lead us, and someone who can manage the country especially issues such as insecurity, economy, others.”
It’s noteworthy that Dr Adesina, an erstwhile Minister of Agriculture in the country, is the first Nigerian to occupy the top job at the development finance institution. He had previously served in several high-profile positions internationally, including that of the Rockefeller Foundation.
Dr Adesina, who is currently serving a second term as AfDB President, which will elapse in 2025, penultimate week, met with President Muhammadu Buhari at the presidential villa, Abuja.
If you asked me, I would say the game is fast becoming more interesting and entertaining as the days unfold. It’s really obvious and indisputable that Dr Adesina’s abrupt display of interest to participate in the impending Nigeria’s presidential race is an indication that the battle ground is indeed getting to the tougher stage.
As we watch keenly to observe the end of the show, it’s our collective duty to ensure the electorate remain cautious of their responsibilities. Then, as regards the primaries, the delegates of the various parties must concentrate on how their tickets would be given only to the best among the aspirants.