Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates has made a bold projection about the future of Lagos, Nigeria. Speaking at the Goalkeepers event hosted by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in Lagos, Gates stated that the bustling West African metropolis is on track to become the largest city in the world.
“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,” said Gates.
Africa’s Youth Will Shape the World, Says Gates
Gates emphasized that Africa’s rapidly growing young population is the key to the continent’s global influence in the 21st century.
“Africa is a very young continent. More than half of all the children born this century will be African,” he noted. “This large number of young people will affect the whole world in many important ways.”
The philanthropist stressed that Africa’s future potential is immense, but unlocking it will depend on decisive investments in human capital.
A Bright Future Depends on Today’s Choices
While expressing optimism, Gates cautioned that realizing this future requires urgent action from governments and stakeholders across the continent.
“Whether this young population brings positive change will depend on the choices we make in the next 20 years,” he said. “If we make smart investments, Africa’s future will be truly amazing.”
He specifically called for strategic investments in:
- Health systems
- Quality education
- Agriculture
- Clean water and sanitation
- Electricity and infrastructure
Lagos Could Lead the Global Economy
In his closing remarks, Gates expressed hope that Lagos could become a global economic powerhouse, inspiring the rest of the world if the right steps are taken now.
“If we invest wisely today, cities like Lagos will not just grow in size, but will grow in significance—leading the world in innovation, culture, and opportunity,” he concluded.
