By Ese Williams

President of the Africa Development Bank (AfDB), Dr Akinwumi Adesina, has urged the media to play a bigger role in amplifying Africa’s voice, particularly by promoting positive narratives and showcasing the continent’s achievements.

Adesina made the call on Monday during a media breakfast to open the bank’s week-long 2025 Annual Meetings in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

He emphasised the critical role journalists played in shaping the narrative about Africa’s development and informing both regional and global audiences.

“You are not just observers. You are amplifiers of Africa’s voice. You shape the narrative. You challenge us. You inform the world,” he said.

The meetings, which mark the final chapter of Adesina’s 10-year leadership, are expected to host over 5,000 delegates from 91 countries.

Participants include AfDB Governors, policy makers, private sector leaders, academics, civil society actors, and development partners.

Adesina said the meetings offer a platform for high-level policy dialogues and strategic conversations on pressing issues affecting the continent.

He listed some of them to include macroeconomic stability, domestic resource mobilisation, energy transitions, and food systems transformation.

The News agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 2025 meetings are being held under the theme: “Making Africa’s Capital Work Better for Africa’s Development.”

Key highlights of the sessions include the Presidential Dialogue, the launch of the African Economic Outlook, and in-depth thematic discussions aimed at mobilising capital and building stronger institutions.

Adesina urged the media to fully engage in the events, ask tough questions, and help tell the “real stories of transformation” happening across the continent.

The bank is expected to announce its new President by the conclusion of the meetings. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza