- Bill Gates has voiced strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, describing them as critical despite their challenges
- Nigerians have, however, reacted strongly to Gates' comments, expressing their dissatisfaction
- TheRadar compiled reactions from the people over Bill Gates's statements
In a recent statement, the American billionaire Bill Gates voiced his support for the economic reforms and policies of Tinubu's government in Nigeria.
He acknowledged the reforms as difficult but critical for the country's progress, adding that Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” plan is difficult but necessary.
Bill Gates disclosed this at the National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, presided by Vice President Kashim Sheitima in the Council Chambers of the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja on Wednesday, September 4.
Gates urges Nigeria to focus on revenue, others
The American billionaire said, “Nigeria’s economic leaders have done some difficult, but necessary things, like unifying the exchange rate. The next great hurdle is raising revenue.
“I understand this is a politically sensitive area. Nigerians are struggling. Incomes have fallen. Prices have soared. And like in many other countries, people are protesting.
“Taxes are never popular. That’s true in America too. But they’re part of a social compact. People are more likely to pay them when they see the government spending that money to give Nigerians a better life.
Gates commends policies, discusses Nigeria’s promising solutions
“That’s what I want to speak about today. Because there are so many Nigerian leaders committed to investing in your people. And so many promising solutions in the pipeline.
“President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda is ambitious. And he’s assembled a cabinet ready to meet the challenge. But with limited resources, the key is putting the funds you do have to the best possible use,” Bill Gates stated.
Nigerians, struggling with the nation's economic hardships and challenges did not hold back from voicing their minds toward Bill Gates for his statements.
TheRadar compiled reactions from the people over Bill Gates's statements below:
Nigerians react to Bill Gates's statements
“Bill Doors (Gates) will tell you that Tinubu means well for Nigerians but Trump means bad for Americans. Hypocrites,” Eze Arinze stated.
“You dey mind person wey don Kolo, na since he talk say Africans go kpai anyhow during COVID na then I know say him no mean well for us,” JC Dollars commented.
“Wicked personality,” Tajudeen Christiana added.
“In reality both men don’t deserve to rule any poultry farm let alone a country,” wyze foundation stated.
“You must be mad sir. It’s because you guys are taking advantage of the situation,” JON added.
“This man better leave our nation alone. Satan-incarnate,” David Brand MD commented.
“This man is becoming a major problem in Nigeria, the earliest we recognize his impunity and wickedness and kick him and his evil policies out of this country…the better for everyone,” Henry Augustine stated.
“Be like dem don promise this man role for next election,” Timi The Event Shark commented.
Bill Gates in Nigeria to discuss health sector challenges with stakeholders
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that the co-chairman of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Bill Gates, would be visiting Nigeria as part of the foundation’s ongoing commitment to Africa’s development.
The foundation has partnered with African regional institutions, national governments, and local communities in 49 African countries to contribute funding and scientific expertise since its inception in 2000.