Renowned American business magnate and philanthropist, Bill Gates, expressed his excitement about experiencing the vibrant Nigerian music scene during his visit to the country. In particular, he mentioned his youngest daughter, Phoebe’s enthusiasm about the possibility of meeting two popular Nigerian music stars – Burna Boy and Rema.
Gates made this revelation during his opening address at an event held in Lagos State on Wednesday. His visit to Nigeria, accompanied by Aliko Dangote, formed part of the Gates Foundation’s commitment to closely collaborate with communities and leaders in supporting innovation and development initiatives.
According to The PUNCH, the business mogul and Dangote also paid a visit to President Bola Tinubu on Monday, emphasizing their dedication to fostering partnerships with key figures in the country.
During his speech, Gates shared his daughter Phoebe’s excitement and her remark, stating, “When my daughter Phoebe heard I was coming to Nigeria, she said, ‘You’re lucky because you get to see Burna Boy and Rema, so I had to look them up…because I’m so ‘hip.’ But I remember the last time I was here, I got to see Davido & Wizkid perform.”
Bill Gates further commended Nigeria’s creative spirit, acknowledging the global popularity of Afrobeats, a genre that originated in the country.
“Of course, being here in Nigeria, I can’t help but mention the amazing creativity that goes on here. Afrobeats from Nigeria are popular everywhere. When my daughter Phoebe heard I was coming to Nigeria, she said, ‘You’re lucky to go see Burna Boy and Rema,'” Gates expressed.
Reflecting on his previous visit to Nigeria, Gates fondly remembered witnessing the electrifying performances of Nigerian music sensations Davido and Wizkid. He praised their talent and mentioned that his children perceive Nigeria as an incredibly trendy and exciting place.
“But I also remember, the last time I was here, I did get to see Davido and Wizkid perform, and I was quite impressed with that. So, my kids think I’ve come to a very hip place,” Gates added with a smile.
Bill Gates’ anticipation of experiencing the Nigerian music scene, alongside his daughter’s eagerness to meet Burna Boy and Rema, highlights the significant influence of Nigerian music and the country’s vibrant cultural landscape on the global stage.
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