Bill Gates, Co-Chairman of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, has announced a $2.8 billion investment in Nigeria aimed at improving the country’s healthcare, nutrition, and agricultural sectors. Gates made the announcement during his address to Nigeria’s National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, stressing the importance of investing in the country’s most valuable asset—its people.
The billionaire philanthropist, whose foundation has been a key development partner in Nigeria, expressed concern over the country’s economic challenges but remained hopeful about its potential for growth. With the foundation’s total commitment to Nigeria now surpassing $2.8 billion, Gates highlighted the need for greater attention to primary healthcare, noting that Nigeria spends just N3,000 per person annually on it.
“Without health, there can be no opportunity,” Gates stated, urging Nigerian leaders to increase funding for primary healthcare and ensure efficient use of allocated resources.
Gates also praised Nigeria’s recent public health achievements, such as the HPV vaccination campaign that reached over 12 million girls in one month. However, he pointed out the need for data-driven decision-making to further improve healthcare delivery.
In the area of nutrition, Gates highlighted the alarming rate of child malnutrition, which accounts for nearly half of child deaths in Nigeria. He called for increased private-sector involvement in food fortification and urged state governments to enforce nutritional mandates to combat the issue.
On maternal health, Gates advocated for affordable interventions, including the use of multiple micronutrient supplements (MMS), which he said could prevent anaemia and save the lives of thousands of newborns.
Turning to agriculture, Gates expressed concern over Nigeria’s growing food insecurity, worsened by climate change and outdated farming practices. He recommended boosting funding for agricultural extension services, fertilisers, and infrastructure to support farmers. Gates also promoted the adoption of higher-yield, pest-resistant crop varieties, such as the new cassava strains developed with the foundation’s support.
Despite the challenges facing Nigeria, Gates expressed optimism that with strategic investments and dedicated leadership, the country could achieve a brighter future. “By putting the Nigerian people first, Nigeria’s leaders can build a better future. I still believe in the grand vision of Nigeria’s future, and that future depends on all of you,” Gates concluded.
