Bill Gates Fingers Nigeria's Low Tax Revenue As Barrier to Health, Education Funding
American billionaire and philanthropist Bill Gates has fingered low tax revenue as a major barrier to the funding of the health sector and education in Nigeria
By: Abdulwasiu Akintunde
The co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Bill Gates, has raised concerns about Nigeria's low tax collection rates, highlighting the challenges this poses for funding essential sectors like health and education.
Speaking at Nutrivision 2024, a Pan-African youth dialogue on nutrition held in Abuja, Gates addressed the issue while discussing potential funding strategies for large-scale public health initiatives.
As gathered by OPEN TELEVISION Naija, Gates emphasized that Nigeria's current tax revenues are insufficient to support critical Government functions. Gates suggested that as citizens gain confidence in well-managed programs, such as those supported by his foundation, which focus on efficient primary healthcare, there would be stronger support for funding these sectors.
He pointed out the importance of operating an efficient primary healthcare system with well-located and adequately staffed facilities, which could enhance public trust and lead to greater financial support for these programs.
Gates also expressed optimism about Nigeria's agricultural potential, noting that with the right investments in credit facilities, soil surveys, and farmer advisory services, the country could shift from being a net food importer to a major food exporter.
This transformation could significantly impact the economy, particularly by reducing the need for scarce foreign currency to import food and instead generating revenue through exports.
He further suggested that by embracing digital technologies and improved seed varieties, Nigeria could spark an agricultural revolution, boosting productivity and addressing issues of equity and nutrition across the nation.
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