Nigerian Afrobeats singer, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has made history by becoming the first artiste to sell out the 30,000-capacity Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Davido performed in the state on Sunday as part of the Nigerian leg of his ongoing 5ive Tour. The concert, which drew a massive turnout of fans, marked his first major home performance after the successful North American phase of the tour.
Speaking at a pre-concert reception hosted by Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, and the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, Davido said Akwa Ibom was chosen to host the opening leg of the tour because of the standard of facilities in the state and its growing reputation for hosting large-scale entertainment events.
He said the decision to begin the tour in Uyo was deliberate and based on what the state has to offer.
Davido said, “When we were looking around Africa, five places came, and Akwa Ibom was at the top of the list. A lot of people are flying from other states that don’t have this type of facility.
“I am excited, it is (the Akwa Ibom tour) is best of its kind. We toured America already, and it was a great success, and we were looking for a good facility around Africa, and Akwa Ibom is one of the places that we found out.
“You have a standard facility, that’s why we are starting here. As time goes, we will keep doing the other states and I am just excited the stadium is already filled up, so let’s get ready and shut it down.”
Davido also described the state as a place with “beautiful” features and potentials, adding that if more states had the same level of infrastructure, touring across the country would be easier.
In his remarks, Senate President Akpabio praised Governor Eno for his leadership and support for youth development.
He noted that Davido’s influence has contributed to mentoring young talents and urged him to carry Akwa Ibom’s rising stars along as he continues the tour within and outside Nigeria.
Governor Eno, in his comment, thanked Davido for inspiring young Nigerians through his music and work ethic. He described the singer’s rise as an example of what dedication can achieve.
He said, “We want to thank you for being an inspiration to the younger generation. For me, you have taken your career to the zenith, and it is an inspiration to the youths that what they set their hand to do is possible and achievable.
“We are a youth-friendly state and we are trying to develop talents. Thank you for sharing the stage with some of our local entertainers, which is an inspiration to them that one day, they can also aspire to be like you.”
Davido’s 5ive Tour will continue in Yola, Enugu, Ibadan and is expected to close in Lagos on December 25.
