Bill Gates, co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, has identified poor investment in the country's health system as one of the issues limiting the potential of many Nigerians.
During his speech on Wednesday in Lagos at the Pan-African Youth Innovation Forum, Mr. Gates said that the nation only spends about $10 on healthcare per person.
Based on currency rates in the Nigerian foreign exchange market as of the time this article was filed on Wednesday, the sum is equivalent to N6,900.
The Nigerian government, according to Mr. Gates, needs to increase its investment in equitable solutions and the people who are pursuing them.
He stated that although Nigeria is home to many creative individuals, it would be difficult for them to realize their full potential "if they don't have access to the most basic building blocks of life."
Mr Gates said: “It may not surprise you that Nigeria’s state and the federal government only spend the equivalent of $10 on health per person each year, compared to $31 in sub-Saharan Africa.
“Leaders need to make a much bigger financial commitment, focusing most on improving primary health systems.
“Making sure clinics are well-staffed and supplied, making sure children get the vaccines they need—all of these is essential to improving health and opportunity and unlocking all of Nigeria’s potential.â€
Mr. Gate's committed to discussing increased agricultural and digital banking system obligations with the government.