An American business magnate, investor, and philanthropist, Bill Gates has returned to the United States after his visit to Nigeria. He wrote about his experience in the West African country. He is optimistic that the population of young Nigerians will change the narratives in Nigeria.
“I’ve been fortunate to spend a good amount of time in Nigeria over the past two-plus decades as part of my work with the Gates Foundation. Each time I return, the country feels both familiar and entirely new.
That’s exactly how it felt earlier this week when I visited for the first time in five years. It was great to catch up with old friends and reconnect in person with longtime partners. At the same time, I was blown away by how much this vibrant, dynamic place has changed. But it makes sense: Nigeria isn’t just the most populous country in Africa—it also has one of the youngest populations in the world. And where there are young people, there’s always innovation.
From agriculture and solar power to maternal health and neonatal care, Nigerians are at the forefront of next-generation advancements that will improve the country, the continent, and even the world. With Afrobeat music and Nollywood movies and TV shows, Nigerian culture is entertaining us, too.
It was a busy, inspiring week—one that also included my first-ever trip to Niger, where our foundation has been working for years alongside talented Nigeriens to prevent the spread of polio.
You can read more about his time in West Africa, and why he is so optimistic that Young Nigerians will Change Nigeria, On the road in Nigeria and Niger | Bill Gates (gatesnotes.com)
