Bill Gates, the well-known American philanthropist, recently commented on Nigeria’s tax collection, describing it as low. He made these remarks at Nutrivision 2024, a youth dialogue on nutrition held in Abuja.
When asked about ways the Nigerian government could finance large-scale public health initiatives, Gates pointed out that Nigeria has the potential to become a leading exporter of food. He emphasized the country’s vast agricultural resources and how, with the right support like credit facilities, soil surveys, and expert advice for farmers, Nigeria could significantly boost its food production. This shift could transform Nigeria from a food importer to an exporter, helping to bring in much-needed foreign exchange.
Gates also highlighted the importance of agricultural productivity, especially in Nigeria’s rural and northern regions. He suggested that embracing digital technologies and improved seeds could lead to an agricultural boom, which would positively impact equity, women’s roles, and nutrition issues across the country.
On the topic of public health, Gates stressed that this must remain a priority. He noted that Nigeria has plans to increase government funding, but current tax collection rates are quite low.
He also discussed the need for citizens to trust both public and private initiatives, particularly in education and health. According to Gates, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has been involved in efforts to ensure that funds are used effectively, particularly in running efficient primary health care systems. This, in turn, helps build credibility and encourages citizens to support the prioritization of primary health care as more fiscal resources become available.
