Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has expressed strong confidence in Africa’s future, projecting that Lagos, the bustling economic heart of Nigeria, is on course to become the most populous city globally.

Gates made this remark during the Gates Foundation’s Goalkeepers event in Lagos, where he highlighted the city’s anticipated growth as a symbol of Africa’s increasing significance on the world stage in the 21st century.

Describing Africa as the “most fascinating” region of the century, Gates pointed to the continent’s demographic strength, emphasizing its youthful population.

“Africa is a very young continent,” he remarked. “Over half of all children born this century will be African. That youthfulness is going to influence global trends in profound ways.”

Using Lagos as a case study for Africa’s rapid urban development, Gates said, “This city will eventually become the largest in the world. It’s going to be a dynamic and vibrant place that the world will pay close attention to.”

However, he stressed that Africa’s future success hinges on strategic investments in key sectors, especially health and education.

“The extent to which this young population can drive transformative change depends on the decisions we make in the next two decades,” Gates noted. “With the right investments, Africa’s potential is truly remarkable.”