The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) has underscored Nigeria‘s remarkable potential to enhance its agricultural production, presenting this as a transformative opportunity for the nation.
During yesterday’s 2024 NutriVision event in Abuja, a pan-African forum aimed at discussing innovative strategies to combat malnutrition in Africa, Bill Gates, philanthropist and co-chair of the Foundation, emphasised that with strategic investments in agricultural productivity and healthcare, Nigeria could achieve food security and emerge as a net food exporter, thereby contributing to economic growth and better public health.
Gates highlighted the vast opportunity for Nigeria to more than double its food production, which he described as a game-changer for the country. He pointed out that such an increase would reduce the reliance on foreign currency reserves for food imports, especially in light of current exchange rate issues.
“Nigeria has significant potential to enhance its food output, transforming it into a net food exporter. This could generate revenue through food exports, boost the economy, and improve the livelihoods of people in rural and Northern regions,” he stated.
He stressed the need for Nigeria to adopt digital solutions and utilize improved seed varieties to create what he referred to as “agricultural miracles.” Gates explained that enhancing agricultural productivity is essential for promoting equity, empowering women, and addressing nutrition challenges in Nigeria.
He urged a collective effort to implement these solutions, which would enhance food security and promote broader social and economic development.
In addition to agriculture, Gates discussed the vital role of healthcare in Nigeria’s progress, asserting that health should be a priority in the nation’s overall strategy. He called for increased government investment in health and education, supported by effective tax collection.
“The current tax collection in Nigeria is relatively low. As citizens gain confidence in well-managed programs, they will be more inclined to support increased funding for essential services,” he remarked.
He emphasized the need for efficient primary healthcare systems where resources are utilized effectively and services are delivered efficiently.
“Our foundation is involved with numerous examples demonstrating how to ensure funds are used wisely. We are operating a highly efficient primary healthcare system where staff perform admirably, and centres are appropriately staffed,” he noted.
Gates expressed optimism that these initiatives would bolster the credibility of health programs, motivating citizens to prioritize and advocate for enhanced funding in primary healthcare.
He also highlighted Nigeria‘s potential to learn from successful practices worldwide and adapt them to its unique context, thus driving advancements in agriculture and healthcare.
He envisioned a future where Nigeria could feed itself and nourish the world through thoughtful decision-making that places people at the heart of these efforts.
The BMGF advocates that Africa‘s most pressing challenges can be addressed from within the continent. The foundation actively supports African partners whose innovative ideas and creative strategies have the potential to save lives, improve health, and uplift families across the region.
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