Nigeria recently hosted a significant gathering of global influencers at the Gates Foundation’s Goalkeepers event held in Lagos. Themed “The Future of Progress: Africa in Motion,” the event spotlighted African-led innovations and local solutions, brought to life through music, dance, and powerful storytelling.
Rapper MI Abaga and singer Waje moved the audience with their duet, Nigeria, Africa Will Survive, while popular dancer Kaffy and her troupe brought vibrant energy to the stage.
Co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Bill Gates, was a central figure at the event, joined by his long-time associate and Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote.
Also present were key Nigerian dignitaries, including Chioma Uzodimma, wife of Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
The Goalkeepers event celebrated changemakers promoting equity, health, and opportunity through trust-based collaborations and African innovation.
During his visit, Gates was awarded the national honor of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) by President Bola Tinubu. Photos shared on Tinubu’s official X (formerly Twitter) account showed the president decorating Gates and presenting his certificate. The two men were seen smiling and shaking hands in a moment symbolizing appreciation and partnership.
President Tinubu praised Gates for his foundation’s lasting contributions to maternal health, agriculture, and infectious disease prevention across Nigeria and the continent.
