By David Kabiyesi
Globally acclaimed innovator, Bill Gates is still basking in the euphoria of his short visits to Nigeris this week after he returned to his base on Friday.
In a blog titled: I just got back from Nigeria, Bill Gates expressed his delight seeing the changes and development the country have witnessed since the five years he last visited.
The Apple boss lauded the country for entertaining the globe through its Afrobeats and Nollywood stars, describing Nigeria’s culture as entertaining.
“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 my time in West Africa, and why I’m so optimistic that young people will transform the region’s future, on my blog now,” he wrote on his foundation website.
