University of Gambia renames faculty after Nigerian Akinwunmi Adesina
The University of Gambia has renamed its School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences after the former President of the African Development Bank Group, Dr Akinwumi Adesina in recognition of his contributions to agriculture and food security in Africa.
Penpushing reports that the that decision to rename the faculty was conveyed in a letter dated 27 November 2025 signed by Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, Prof. Pierre Gomez
“Your tenure as President of the African Development Bank has been transformative, driving economic growth, poverty reduction and sustainable development across Africa’, the letter reads
Penpushing further reports that Gomez said Adesina’s leadership in launching the Feed Africa Strategy and the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation (TAAT) initiative had “revolutionised agricultural productivity and food security.”
The university in the statement stated that the gesture was intended to inspire students to emulate Adesina’s vision, determination, and commitment to Africa’s development.
Penpushing also reports that President Adama Barrow unveiled a plaque on Wednesday formally designating the faculty as the Dr Akinwumi Adesina School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences.
The honour followed Adesina’s leadership during his tenure as President of African Development Bank (AfDB) between 2015 and 2025, when the bank implemented wide-ranging reforms that advanced economic development across the continent.
Penpushing reports that Barrow speaking at the ceremony explained that the renaming reflected The Gambia’s appreciation of Adesina’s visionary leadership and lasting contributions to Africa’s agricultural transformation.
The President added that under Adesina’s leadership, the bank rolled out the High 5s development agenda, which includes Light Up and Power Africa, Feed Africa, Integrate Africa, Industrialise Africa and Improve the Quality of Life of Africans.
Penpushing further reports that he said on this the bank data, impacted more than 535 million people, stressing that during the same period, the Bank’s capital base grew from $93 billion to $318 billion, the highest in its history, while the institution retained its AAA credit rating and won several global awards.
The celebrated Nigerian in a letter of appreciation to President Barrow, described the honour as exceptional, stressing that it was with great humility and deep gratitude that he express his appreciation for the renaming of the School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences in his honour’.
Penpushing also reports that record has it that Adesina spearheaded the Feed Africa Strategy, which provided food security for more than 104 million people and strengthened agricultural productivity across the continent.
The record equally has it that in The Gambia, the bank under Adesina financed the Senegambia Bridge, a landmark project that has significantly reduced travel time between The Gambia and Senegal and boosted trade and regional integration.
Penpushing further reports that it is recalled that in 2023 President Barrow, conferred on Adesina The Gambia’s highest national honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Republic, in recognition of his contributions to the country and Africa.
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