Renowned American business magnate, Bill Gates, expressed his excitement about the prospect of meeting Nigerian Afrobeats stars, Burna Boy and Rema, during his visit to Nigeria. Gates shared this revelation while delivering his opening address at an event in Lagos on Wednesday.
Earlier in the week, Gates, along with business tycoon Aliko Dangote, had met with President Bola Tinubu as part of the Gates Foundation’s commitment to collaborating with communities and leaders to support innovation.
During his speech, Gates mentioned that his 20-year-old daughter, Phoebe, was thrilled about his visit to Nigeria and the opportunity to meet celebrated Afrobeats artists, Burna Boy and Rema. He recounted Phoebe’s remark, saying, “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.”
Gates commended the creative talent in Nigeria and acknowledged the global popularity of Nigerian Afrobeats. He remarked, “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.'”
Reflecting on his previous visit to Nigeria, Gates recalled witnessing performances by renowned artists Davido and Wizkid, expressing his admiration for their talent. He added, “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.”
Bill Gates’ enthusiasm about meeting Burna Boy and Rema demonstrates the global reach and influence of Nigerian Afrobeats music. As his visit to Nigeria continues, Gates looks forward to engaging with the vibrant creativity and talent present in the country’s entertainment industry.
