Buhari receives AfDB President, says no sustainable development without infrastructure

President Muhammadu Buhari has said that the infrastructural deficits the country has in roads, rail and power can not be overcome without support.

President Buhari said this on Thursday while receiving in audience at State House, Abuja, the newly re-elected President of African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr Akinwumi Adesina.

• Alleged killings of Christians: What I told Trump – Buhari
• 1st Lady Aisha Buhari and Bulama’s cartoon

“There can’t be sustainable development without infrastructure.

“Our efforts should be seen in the context of lack of resources, but you do your best to support us.

“I wish you all the best in your final term,” the President said in a statement issued by his spokesman, Femi Adesina.

Dr Adesina had overcome stiff opposition last month to win an unprecedented 100% votes from the regionals and non-regionals that make up the Bank, and was inaugurated for second term of five years as AfDB President on September 1.

The President, who hailed the AfDB President for his support for Africa in general, and Nigeria in particular, said: “I congratulate you on your second and final term in office.

“Congratulations on winning the election.

“Nothing succeeds like success.

“I have told so many people why I backed you.

“In 2015, at your first term, you were a Minister with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) government, and I was of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“But you are a good Nigerian.

“So, I recommended you the first time.

“You proved to be competent, you made us proud, and I recommended you the second time.”

The AfDB President thanked President Buhari and Nigerians for their support, saying he was proud to be a citizen of the country.

“Home is where dreams are born.

“Home is where nurturing is provided.

“It is where support is given for realization of dreams.

“I am glad to belong here,” Dr Adesina said.

“When I came in June, you received me, and I shared my successes, and the difficulties facing me.

“You listened, and said you would stand by me. And you did.

“You not only stood behind me, but also beside me.

“No greater honour for a man than for his Commander-in-Chief to be his Supporter-in-Chief, and his Defender-in-Chief,” he added.

Adesina said Nigeria gave him air, “when I badly needed it in my lungs,” and pledged to always support the country in his private capacity, and as AfDB President.