AFDB Appoints S/African, Vincent Nmehielle Secretary General

Nmehielle, who holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from Rivers State University of Science and Technology in Nigeria, is expected to join the Senior Management Team of the Bank.

He also holds advanced degrees in law, including a Master of Laws in International Law from the University of Notre Dame Law School, USA; and a Doctor of Juridical Science in International Law from George Washington University, USA.

He was a Legal Counsel and Director for Legal Affairs at the African Union Commission (AUC), where he served as the chief Legal Advisor of the Policy Organs of the African Union.

In his acknowledgement, Professor Nmehielle said, “I am excited to join the dynamic senior leadership team being put together at the African Development Bank to help accelerate the transformation of the African continent. I look forward to being part of the team, to support the Banks’s institutional governance and accountability systems, working closely with the Board of Directors and the Management of the Bank.”

President of the AFDB, Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina, said of the appointment, “I am delighted to welcome Vincent Nmehielle to the African Development Bank Group. The Bank will greatly benefit from Vincent’s extensive experience in international law, corporate governance, ability to manage highly diverse stakeholders, and strengthen institutional governance to drive accountability and results. He is a great addition to our team.”

Professor Nmehielle takes over from Nigerian national, Ms. Cecilia Akintomide, who assumed the position in May 2010.

Akintomide holds Master of Laws Degree from both the University of Miami Law School (Florida, U.S.A.) and the University of Pennsylvania Law School (Pennsylvania, U.S.A), and is a member of both the Nigerian and New York State Bars.