Bill Gates Reveals Daughter’s Excitement Over Him Meeting Nigerian Music Stars Burna Boy and Rema During Visit
In an inspiring display of cross-cultural exchange, renowned American business mogul, philanthropist, and co-founder of Microsoft, Bill Gates, shared his youngest daughter’s enthusiasm for his recent trip to Nigeria. His 20-year-old daughter, Phoebe, a keen enthusiast of Afrobeats, was particularly thrilled about the potential prospect of her father meeting with top-tier Nigerian music stars such as Burna Boy and Rema during his visit.
This captivating exchange took place on Wednesday, as Bill Gates delivered an influential opening address at a highly-anticipated event in the bustling heart of Lagos State, further solidifying his presence in the vibrant African nation.
Earlier in the week, Gates and Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, paid a visit to President Bola Tinubu on Monday. This strategic encounter signifies part of the Gates Foundation’s profound commitment to fostering relationships with communities and leaders worldwide, enhancing innovation, and supporting socioeconomic development.
During his address, Gates revealed his daughter Phoebe’s anticipation and excitement over his visit to Nigeria, and the distinct possibility of engaging with Afrobeats’ sensation, including Burna Boy and Rema. “When my daughter Phoebe heard I was coming to Nigeria, she said, ‘You’re lucky because you get to see Burna Boy and Rema,’ which prompted me to learn more about them… I always aim to stay ‘hip’,” Gates recounted humorously.
The American business tycoon also fondly remembered his previous visit to the country where he was graced with the electrifying performances by Davido and Wizkid. His admiration for the country’s rich and diverse creative pool was palpable.
“Nigeria is brimming with innovative and creative minds. It’s a place where the globally popular Afrobeats originate, and my daughter reminded me of this by saying, ‘You’re lucky to go see Burna Boy and Rema.’ It’s exciting to see Nigeria’s cultural influence extending worldwide,” Gates observed.
He further reminisced about his last encounter with Nigeria’s pulsating music scene. “The last time I was here, I had the incredible opportunity to witness Davido and Wizkid’s performances, and I was thoroughly impressed. So now, my kids think I’ve come to a very hip place,” Gates said, humorously concluding his appreciation of Nigeria’s dynamic and thriving music industry.
This delightful exchange underscores the global recognition and burgeoning popularity of Nigeria’s Afrobeats and its trailblazing artists such as Burna Boy, Rema, Davido, and Wizkid, resonating even with the likes of influential personalities like Bill Gates and his family.