During an interview with selected journalists at the 2024 NutriVision Dialogue held in Abuja on Tuesday, Bill Gates, the co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has highlighted Nigeria as the largest recipient of the foundation's intervention funds in Africa.
Gates emphasized that addressing global health inequality is a primary focus for the foundation, particularly in combating diseases such as measles, malaria, and polio.
He noted, “We spend a lot in Asia, but we spend even more in Africa. The country we spend the most in Africa is Nigeria. That makes sense because of the population and the incredible needs that are here.”
He acknowledged that the foundation has invested billions in Nigeria and expressed satisfaction with the progress made in reducing child mortality rates, while also recognizing the need for further improvement.
Looking forward, Gates announced plans for increased funding aimed at enhancing primary healthcare services in Nigeria.
He remarked, “Our work is almost entirely focused on primary healthcare because the impact per dollar is dramatically greater than anywhere else.”
In addition to health initiatives, Gates explained the foundation's commitment to the agricultural sector, asserting that improving agricultural productivity is essential for Nigeria's economic growth.
He outlined strategies that include providing access to high-yield, climate-resistant seeds, fertilizers, and timely information for farmers, which he believes will increase agricultural output and lower food costs.
Gates also discussed the foundation's efforts in food fortification to enhance the nutritional quality of staple foods and deliver public health benefits. He stressed the importance of ensuring access to a variety of affordable foods, particularly milk and eggs, as a means to combat malnutrition.
Since its establishment in 2000, the Gates Foundation has partnered with various African regional institutions, national governments, and local communities across 49 African nations.
