By Femi Fabunmi
Bill Gates, the co-founder of Microsoft and a well-known philanthropist, has projected that Lagos could become the largest city in the world, PM news has learnt.
Gates made this statement while speaking at the Goalkeepers event organized by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, which was held in Lagos.
According to the Microsoft boss, Lagos is growing very fast and is an example of how Africa is becoming more important in the world.
He explained that one reason for Africa’s bright future is its young population.
“Africa is a very young continent,” Gates said. “More than half of all the children born this century will be African. This large number of young people will affect the whole world in many important ways.”
Continuing, Gates said, “The city we are in today—Lagos—will become the largest city in the world in the future. It will be full of energy, activity, and opportunities, and people around the world will pay attention to what happens here.”
However, Gates also warned that this bright future depends on decisions made now. He said that the governments, leaders, and people of Africa must invest more in health, education, agriculture and basic services like clean water and electricity to be able to achieve it .
“Whether this young population brings positive change will depend on the choices we make in the next 20 years,” Gates said. “If we make smart investments, Africa’s future will be truly amazing.”
He added that the world should support Africa to help it reach its full potential. According to him, strong health systems, good schools, and economic opportunities are the keys to success.
Gates ended his speech with hope and encouragement, saying that if the right steps are taken now, Africa and especially Lagos could lead the way in the global economy and inspire the rest of the globe.
