Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, discussed the foundation's plans for Nigeria and the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) during an event in Lagos. The foundation aims to address equity gaps in Nigeria by partnering with organizations, supporting innovation, and deploying technology in areas such as education, health, and agriculture. Gates emphasized the importance of improving digital finance, particularly for women and rural areas, and announced investments to enhance internet connectivity, digital banking agents, and the digital identification system. The foundation previously awarded grants to Nigerian entities, such as Paga, to support financial inclusion. Gates also highlighted the potential of AI, mentioning its use in designing malaria drugs, and revealed that the foundation received 1,300 proposals for AI solutions to reduce inequity, with a significant number coming from Africa. In the healthcare sector, the foundation has been collaborating with Nigerian partners to address challenges, including developing cost-effective solutions for anaemia in pregnant women. Regarding agriculture, Gates expressed interest in supporting digital innovations that promote biofertilizers, improved seeds, and access to weather information for farmers. He believes Nigeria has the potential to be a net exporter of agricultural products and sees opportunities for increased exports and job creation.

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