U.S. billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates, Chairman of the Gates Foundation, has announced a substantial $2.8 billion investment to bolster healthcare, nutrition, and agriculture in Nigeria.
During a meeting of the National Economic Council (NEC) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Gates underscored the crucial need to invest in Nigeria’s greatest asset—its people—while addressing the country’s economic hurdles.
Gates, who met with Vice President Shettima and Aliko Dangote, Chairman of the Dangote Foundation, has long been a strong advocate for Nigeria. The Gates Foundation’s commitment to the country now exceeds $2.8 billion, marking it as the largest such initiative in Africa.
In his address to the NEC, Gates highlighted both the challenges and opportunities that Nigeria faces, particularly in light of economic stagnation and rising national debt.
He stressed the critical importance of investing in primary healthcare, stating, “Without health, there can be no opportunity.” Gates pointed out that despite Nigeria’s wealth, the country allocates only N3,000 per person annually for primary healthcare—a figure he believes should be significantly increased.
Gates called on Nigerian leaders to boost funding for primary healthcare and ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and timely. He also commended recent achievements, such as the HPV vaccination campaign, which successfully reached over 12 million Nigerian girls within a month.
However, he emphasized the need for ongoing improvements, particularly in data-driven decision-making to enhance healthcare delivery and workforce management.
On the topic of nutrition, Gates expressed concern over the high rate of child malnutrition in Nigeria, which contributes to nearly half of all child deaths. He urged greater involvement from the private sector in food fortification and called on state governments to enforce nutritional standards.
Gates also discussed affordable interventions in maternal health, including the use of multiple micronutrient supplements (MMS) to prevent anemia and save newborn lives. He advocated for increased investment in agricultural support, including extension services, fertilizers, and infrastructure.
He encouraged the adoption of innovative crop varieties with higher yields and better pest resistance, such as the new cassava varieties developed with the Gates Foundation’s support.
Reaffirming the Gates Foundation’s long-term commitment to Nigeria and Africa, Gates acknowledged the challenges in transforming the country’s fortunes but expressed optimism. He believes that with smart investments, innovative solutions, and dedicated leadership, Nigeria can secure a brighter future.
“By prioritizing the Nigerian people, Nigeria’s leaders can build a better future,” Gates said. “I still believe in the grand vision of Nigeria’s future, and that future depends on all of you.
