AfDB: Inauguration of New President Sidi Ould Tah Held in Abidjan

Abidjan, September 1, 2025 – The President of Côte d'Ivoire, Alassane Ouattara, presided over the official swearing-in ceremony of Dr. Sidi Ould Tah, the newly elected President of the African Development Bank Group (AfDB), on Monday, September 1st, in Abidjan.

Dr. Sidi Ould Tah, a national of Mauritania, becomes the ninth president of the AfDB. He officially assumed office during a solemn ceremony in which he pledged to serve with “loyalty, discretion, and integrity.” He succeeds Dr. Akinwumi Adesina of Nigeria, who led the institution for a decade.

The high-level ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including President Alassane Ouattara of Côte d'Ivoire and President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani of Mauritania.

“I pledge to uphold the provisions of the Agreement establishing the African Development Bank and to abide by its rules,” declared Dr. Ould Tah during his oath of office. He emphasized his commitment to work with “loyalty, discretion, and conscience.”

Addressing the current challenges facing the African continent, the new AfDB president acknowledged that “there is no development without peace.” He also expressed confidence in Africa’s future:

“I remain confident that Africa will continue to demonstrate resilience. The time is now for action. Africa is watching us,” he said.

Earlier in his speech, Dr. Ould Tah extended his deep gratitude to President Ouattara for the strong support provided during his campaign for the presidency of the Bank. He also paid tribute to his predecessors, vowing to build on their legacy and work collaboratively with the Bank's governors:

“I commit to working with each of the governors in a spirit of consultation… I salute the inspiring work of my predecessors.”

In his remarks, President Alassane Ouattara reaffirmed Côte d’Ivoire’s full support for the AfDB and its new leadership:

“The assumption of office by Dr. Sidi Ould Tah marks the end of a remarkable decade under Dr. Akinwumi Adesina and opens a new era of hope for the Bank,” he stated.

President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani of Mauritania also expressed his appreciation to President Ouattara for his decisive backing during the election process. He reaffirmed Mauritania’s continued support for the new president, noting:

“The AfDB plays a critical role in the economic and social development of our continent.”