Nigerian Afrobeats superstar, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has achieved another career milestone by becoming the first artiste to sell out the 30,000-capacity Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The record-breaking concert, held on Sunday, marked the Nigerian leg of his ongoing “5ive Tour” and drew an ecstatic crowd of fans from within and outside the state. It also served as Davido’s first major home performance since the successful completion of the tour’s North American phase.
Speaking at a pre-concert reception hosted by Governor Umo Eno and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Davido said Akwa Ibom was deliberately chosen as the first stop of the African leg of the tour due to the state’s world-class facilities and growing reputation for hosting large-scale entertainment events.
“When we were looking around Africa, Akwa Ibom came top on the list. Many people are flying in from other states because they don’t have facilities like this,” Davido said.
“We toured America successfully, and we were looking for a good venue in Africa—Akwa Ibom stood out. You have a standard facility, and that’s why we’re starting here. I’m so excited to see the stadium filled up already; let’s get ready to shut it down.”
The singer also described Akwa Ibom as a “beautiful state with great potential,” adding that improved infrastructure across Nigeria would make nationwide tours easier and more rewarding for artistes.
In his remarks, Senate President Akpabio commended Governor Eno for his commitment to youth development and praised Davido for his positive influence on young Nigerians. He urged the artiste to continue mentoring emerging talents, especially from Akwa Ibom.
Governor Umo Eno thanked Davido for inspiring the younger generation through his music and hard work.
“You have taken your career to the top, and that inspires our youths to believe that with dedication, anything is achievable,” the governor said. “We’re a youth-friendly state, and we appreciate that you’re sharing the stage with our local entertainers—it gives them hope that they can rise to your level someday.”
Davido’s “5ive Tour” will continue in Yola, Enugu, and Ibadan, before rounding off with a grand finale in Lagos on December 25.
