Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft, has called on Nigerian leaders to prioritize combating malnutrition and food insecurity as part of the country’s development strategy. Speaking at the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, presided over by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa, Gates warned that Nigeria’s long-term stability and prosperity are at risk without immediate investments in nutrition and agriculture,leadership reports.
Gates, whose foundation has invested over $2.8 billion in Nigeria, emphasized the severity of the nation’s food security crisis, noting that Nigeria ranks second globally in food insecurity. He attributed this crisis to factors like climate change, land degradation, and rising food prices, which have left millions of Nigerians at risk of hunger.
“Nigeria’s future hinges on solving the intertwined problems of malnutrition and food insecurity,” Gates said. He explained that malnourished children are more vulnerable to deadly diseases, and malnutrition has long-term effects on both physical and cognitive development, limiting the potential of individuals and the country as a whole.
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He commended Nigerian scientists for their efforts to fortify staple foods with essential nutrients, including a project to enhance the nutritional value of bouillon cubes, a common dietary item. This initiative, if expanded, could save thousands of lives and prevent millions of cases of anemia each year. However, Gates stressed the importance of private-sector collaboration and strict government oversight to ensure companies meet food fortification standards.
“Fortified foods are essential for many Nigerians, but too many companies are failing to meet the required standards,” Gates said. He urged government and business leaders to work together to make nutritious foods more affordable and accessible.
Reflecting on his more than 20 years of experience in Nigeria, Gates reaffirmed his commitment to the country but warned of the challenges ahead if strategic investments aren’t made. He noted Nigeria’s stagnant economy and growing debt, which surpassed 50% of GDP earlier this year. He urged leaders to focus on raising revenue and allocating funds effectively, particularly in sectors that can have the greatest impact.
While praising Nigeria’s achievements, such as the HPV vaccination campaign that reached over 12 million girls, Gates pointed out that the country spends disproportionately on secondary and tertiary healthcare, leaving primary care underfunded. He called on governors to reverse this trend and ensure primary healthcare centers are properly equipped and staffed to meet the population’s needs.
“Primary care is the first—and sometimes only—point of contact most patients have with the health system,” Gates said. He also urged leaders to strengthen digital systems and use data for effective planning, citing Gombe state’s success in using biometric attendance to eliminate ghost workers and save N1.3 billion naira.
In addition to nutrition, Gates advocated for greater investment in Nigeria’s agricultural sector to tackle the root causes of food insecurity. He highlighted the need for more funding for agricultural extension workers, improved infrastructure, and the adoption of innovative, climate-resistant crop varieties.
“Nigeria may be the largest producer of cassava in the world, but demand still outstrips supply,” Gates noted. He suggested that by adopting more resilient crop varieties, Nigeria could better feed its people and strengthen its economy.
Gates reaffirmed the commitment of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to partnering with Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of addressing these pressing challenges. “Malnutrition and food insecurity are solvable problems,” he said. “With smart investments and strong partnerships, Nigeria’s leaders can lay the foundation for a healthier, more prosperous future.”
Though acknowledging the difficulty of the task, Gates remained optimistic. “I’m an optimist by nature, but also a realist. Turning things around won’t be easy. But by putting the Nigerian people first, Nigeria’s leaders can build a better future,” he said, reiterating his belief in the country’s potential and urging its leaders to stay the course.
