Afrobeats star Davido has announced a three-night residency in Lagos, titled Oriadè: The Residency, at the National Theatre from December 17 to 19, 2026. The event aims to demonstrate that African artistes can stage major concerts at home while supporting local businesses and promoting Nigerian culture. Davido emphasized the importance of bringing large productions back home to strengthen the local entertainment economy.
The idea for the residency took shape after Davido's 2025 African tour, which marked his first major tour of the continent in eight years. He stated that being back home inspired him, and he doesn't want to take a break away from his fans again. Davido also cited Bad Bunny's 2025 concert residency in Puerto Rico as an influence, which attracted visitors and created economic opportunities beyond the concert venue.
Davido hopes his Lagos residency will attract international visitors and give Nigerians in the diaspora a reason to return home during the festive season. December is one of Lagos' busiest entertainment periods, with concerts, festivals, and parties drawing visitors to the city. He praised the city's talent, saying it's "mind-blowing" and comparable to water in Lagos.
The renovated National Theatre is central to Davido's plans due to its place in Nigeria's cultural and entertainment history. He compared it to the famous Madison Square Garden in New York, emphasizing the need to show the world that Africa has similar facilities. Davido believes that showcasing these facilities will help promote African culture and demonstrate that they can host large productions.
Davido stressed the importance of not neglecting local fans after gaining international recognition. He encouraged emerging artistes to remember their local fans who supported their careers before they gained international recognition. Davido acknowledged that performing in Nigeria may not bring the same earnings as international concerts but argued that it can create jobs and strengthen the local entertainment economy.
The singer's residency aims to promote Nigerian culture and support local businesses. He believes that bringing large productions home can have a positive impact on the local economy and create opportunities for emerging artistes. Davido's event is expected to draw a large audience and showcase Africa's world-class venues.
Davido's Oriadè: The Residency is set to take place at the National Theatre in Lagos from December 17 to 19, 2026. The event is expected to be a major concert in the region, promoting African culture and showcasing the continent's entertainment capabilities.
Key points
- Davido's residency aims to showcase Africa's world-class venues and promote Nigerian culture.
- The event aims to attract international visitors and give Nigerians in the diaspora a reason to return home.
- Davido emphasized the importance of not neglecting local fans after gaining international recognition.
