Davido Discusses His Reasons For Highlighting Nigeria During The World Cup

Afrobeats artist Davido has discussed his choice to use one of the world’s most significant sporting events as a platform for social advocacy, particularly focusing on the kidnapping of schoolchildren in Nigeria during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In a recent interview with the BBC, the award-winning musician expressed his desire to shed light on the security crisis in Nigeria, asserting that international visibility should help amplify the voices of vulnerable Nigerians.

At one of the World Cup side events in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, Davido performed while wearing a black leather jacket that featured the names of children allegedly abducted during the Oyo school kidnapping. This choice of attire became a focal point of discussion during his performance.

His actions elicited mixed reactions. Many praised him for utilizing his global platform to highlight the increasing insecurity in Nigeria, while others contended that such issues should not be presented to a worldwide audience. Notably, popular Hausa praise singer Dauda Adamu Kahutu, known as Rarara, challenged Davido’s sense of patriotism.

Davido countered the idea that protecting the country’s image should take precedence over its citizens’ safety, insisting that silence was not an appropriate response.

“A lot of people don’t really want to talk about what goes on in my country (Nigeria) simply because they want to protect the image, but there’s no image to protect if the little kids are being kidnapped,”

he stated.

He emphasized that while he was pleased to participate in the World Cup, it was important to acknowledge the challenges facing Nigeria, which he believes can be communicated through his music and performances.

Davido’s comments highlight his view that entertainers have a responsibility to leverage their influence beyond music, especially regarding issues affecting ordinary people that require broader attention.

His statement during the World Cup has sparked ongoing discussions regarding the role of public figures in advocating for national issues and the need to balance patriotism with social advocacy.

“There’s no image to protect if little kids are being kidnapped.”

Afrobeats star Davido tells Focus on Africa’s Waihiga Mwaura why he wore pins bearing the names of 39 abducted children and seven teachers during his 2026 World Cup performance. pic.twitter.com/LgRnsTg3Vd

— BBC News Africa (@BBCAfrica) July 5, 2026