From Babcock To Stadiums: Davido Remembers Skipping Class For His First Ibadan Gig

According to Ireporter Online, Afrobeats sensation David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has shared a touching reflection on his humble beginnings as a performer. The Grammy-nominated artist recounted how, in 2011, he skipped school to perform at a show in Ibadan—an experience that would later become a turning point in his career.

Taking to his X handle, Davido revealed that Asa, Peju, B-Red, and Sina had picked him up from Babcock University to join the Lynxxx and Friends Tour. The performance was later aired on Soundcity, much to his father’s displeasure at the time. “In 2011, I skipped school to perform in Ibadan. Asa, Peju, B Red, and Sina picked me up from Babcock, and we drove to join the Lynxxx and Friends Tour. I had no idea it was going to air on Soundcity, and when my pops saw it, I got in so much trouble,” he recalled.

Fast-forward to the present, Davido is now headlining his 5ive Alive tour across major Nigerian cities, including Ibadan, where he recently delivered a sold-out stadium performance. Reflecting on the growth and success, he wrote, “14 years later, we destroyed the stadium. The 5ive Alive run across Nigeria has been one for the books.”

The tour has drawn massive crowds, featuring electrifying performances and collaborations with top-tier artists. Davido also used the opportunity to encourage fellow artists and entrepreneurs to reinvest in Nigeria’s entertainment and creative industries. “To my peers, let’s build back home and give back to our roots. Big love to all our sponsors for backing this historic tour,” he stated.

The 5ive Alive tour is expected to continue with shows in Abuja and Lagos, before moving to Atlanta, USA, where Davido will perform at the State Farm Arena on November 20 as part of his birthday celebration. “Abuja and Lagos up next, but next stop is ATL for my birthday, State Farm Arena on November 20th,” he added.