Afrobeats star Davido says he wants his planned three-night residency in Lagos to demonstrate that African artists can create global music moments at home while contributing to the local economy and promoting Nigerian culture.
CNN reported on Monday that the Nigerian singer will hold the residency at the National Theatre in Lagos from December 17 to 19, combining performances from his latest album, “Oriadé”, with some of his biggest hits and appearances from collaborators.
Davido told CNN that bringing his international success back to Nigeria was important for the culture.
“Bringing everything back home is very important for the culture,” he said.
The 34-year-old said the idea gained momentum after he toured Africa last year, his first wider continental tour in eight years.
“Me just being home just gave me so much inspiration,” he said. “This kind of feels better doing it from where you’re actually from.”
He added, “I don’t ever want to take that kind of break again away from my fans back home.”
Davido said part of his vision was inspired by the impact of Bad Bunny’s 30-date residency in Puerto Rico in 2025, which attracted international visitors and generated activity beyond the concert venue.
“It was like a whole tourist attraction,” Davido said. “The country (Puerto Rico) made money, he made money, he promoted his culture.”
He hopes his Lagos residency can similarly give international fans another reason to visit the city, particularly during December when Nigerians in the diaspora and foreign visitors converge on Lagos for concerts and other festivities associated with “Detty December”.
“The talent in Lagos is mind-blowing,” he said. “Talent is like water in Lagos.” Punch
