Nigerian Afrobeats star Davido has announced plans to hold a three-night residency at the National Theatre in Lagos, Nigeria, from December 17 to 19. The event aims to demonstrate that African artists can create global music moments at home while contributing to the local economy and promoting Nigerian culture. Davido's residency will feature performances from his latest album, “Oriadé”, as well as some of his biggest hits and appearances from collaborators.
According to Davido, the idea for the residency gained momentum after he toured Africa last year, his first wider continental tour in eight years. He stated that being back home inspired him, saying "Me just being home just gave me so much inspiration... This kind of feels better doing it from where you’re actually from." Davido also expressed his desire to give back to his fans in Nigeria and create a memorable experience for international visitors.
Davido cited the impact of Bad Bunny's 30-date residency in Puerto Rico in 2025 as an inspiration for his Lagos residency. He noted that the event attracted international visitors and generated activity beyond the concert venue, saying "It was like a whole tourist attraction... The country (Puerto Rico) made money, he made money, he promoted his culture." Davido hopes to replicate this success in Lagos, particularly during December when Nigerians in the diaspora and foreign visitors converge on the city for concerts and other festivities.
The National Theatre in Lagos, which has been recently renovated, holds a special place in Nigeria's entertainment history. Davido compared the venue to the famous New York arena, Madison Square Garden, saying "It’s like our own MSG (Madison Square Garden) kind of thing." He emphasized the importance of showcasing Africa's world-class venues to the outside world, stating "We’re really showing people that we can do this ourselves."
Davido stressed that Afrobeats' international growth has opened opportunities for African musicians to perform around the world, but argued that overseas success should not come at the expense of audiences at home. He encouraged artists not to lose sight of their local fans, saying "Don’t forget where you started... These are the fans. If not for these fans, we wouldn’t be here." Davido also acknowledged that artists may earn more from overseas performances but believes that bringing major productions home can still generate opportunities locally.
The Lagos residency is among the first of its kind for an Afrobeats artist in Nigeria, with Adekunle Gold having held a smaller residency in Lagos in 2018. Davido's event aims to create local jobs and stimulate economic activity in the city. He expressed his excitement about the talent in Lagos, saying "The talent in Lagos is mind-blowing... Talent is like water in Lagos."
Davido's residency at the National Theatre in Lagos is expected to be a significant event in the city's entertainment calendar. With its focus on showcasing African music and culture, the event has the potential to promote Nigerian culture and contribute to the local economy. The residency is also seen as a milestone in Davido's career, as he continues to make a name for himself in the global music scene.
Key points
- Davido to hold three-night residency at Lagos' National Theatre to showcase African music and culture.
- The event aims to demonstrate that African artists can create global music moments at home while contributing to the local economy.
- The residency is inspired by Bad Bunny's successful residency in Puerto Rico and aims to replicate its success in Lagos.
