Microsoft founder and philanthropist Bill Gates was in Nigeria to discuss important health and development projects. The Gates Foundation reports that the billionaire will also take part in a Goalkeepers Nigeria event that will include local scientists and have as its theme Africa's inventive future.

Don't pass this up!  Sign up for Legit.ng's Sports News WhatsApp channel right now! Microsoft founder and philanthropist Bill Gates has been awarded the Nigerian National Honor of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR), according to President Bola Tinubu.

"The honor is in recognition of Gates' long-standing commitment to improving lives in Nigeria and throughout Africa through interventions in global health and polio eradication, agricultural development, digital innovation, and education," the president said in a tweet on Tuesday, June 3, 2025.

President Bola Tinubu confers a national honour on Bill Gates, Microsoft founder, as he applauds his contributions to key sectors of Nigeria and Africa's economy. Photo Credit: @officialABAT

President Tinubu stated that the philanthropist’s contributions through the Gates Foundation have saved millions of lives, with many of the foundation’s initiatives uplifting communities and inspiring global action.

Tinubu further noted that he and Gates had meaningful conversations to deepen Nigeria's collaboration in the health sector, youth development and innovation. The president also said he and Gates share the belief that genuine progress begins with investing in peopleHe then reiterated the commitment of his administration to welcome ideas, partnerships and actions that benefit humanity.

The ceremony took place in Lagos on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, and was part of the billionaire's ongoing visit to Nigeria to engage in discussions on key health and development initiatives. Gates is visiting the country to engage with leaders at the federal and state levels to strengthen Nigeria's primary health care system.

Why Bill Gates visited Nigeria

A statement from the Gates Foundation further explained that the billionaire will also participate in a Goalkeepers Nigeria event, themed around Africa’s innovative future, which will involve local scientists. He will also contribute to Nigeria’s national strategy on artificial intelligence and health solutions.

According to the statement, the foundation will be opening offices in Nigeria, South Africa, Senegal, and Kenya, in addition to its first African office in Ethiopia, which was established over a decade ago. The foundation explained that this move reflects its commitment to strengthening partnerships across the continent.