By DAYO ADESULU
Nigerian music superstar Davido has returned to Babcock University 11 years after graduating from the institution, pledging to upgrade the university’s music department with a world-class facility.
The award-winning singer, whose real name is David Adeleke, paid a high-profile visit to his alma mater where he was warmly received by the university management led by the President/Vice Chancellor, Professor Afolarin Ojewole, alongside other senior officials.
During the visit, Davido toured the university’s main and mini campuses, visited the music department, and granted an interview at the WAD Media Studio. Speaking emotionally about his return, the singer said Babcock played a major role in shaping his journey to global fame.
“You know that I can’t even talk about my story without mentioning Babcock,” he said.
Davido Pledges International-Standard Music Studio
One of the major highlights of the visit was Davido’s promise to support the expansion of the university’s music department.
According to him, the department deserves its own dedicated building equipped with modern facilities capable of meeting international standards.
The singer revealed plans to donate advanced music equipment and establish a top-class music studio similar to the personal facility he recently built in Lagos.
“I feel like it’s a department that needs its own building. We need proper standards and the right equipment. It’s going to be a high-class music studio,” Davido stated.
He stressed that creativity and entertainment have become major economic drivers globally, adding that music is now as valuable as oil in today’s economy.
“Music is oil and creativity right now is oil too,” he added.
Davido also expressed optimism that discussions with the university management would be concluded before the end of the year.
‘Babcock Taught Me Discipline’ — Davido
Reflecting on his years as a student, Davido credited the university for instilling discipline in him, saying the lessons learned at Babcock helped him navigate the challenges of the entertainment industry.
The singer also reminisced about personal memories from his student days, including meeting his wife, Chioma, at the institution.
He noted that many of his earliest supporters came from the university community and expressed surprise at the level of development on campus since his graduation.
According to him, several impressive structures and facilities have been added to the university over the years.
Davido Advises Youths to Prioritise Education
Speaking directly to young Nigerians, Davido urged aspiring musicians and entertainers not to abandon education in pursuit of fame or money.
He encouraged students to believe in themselves while ensuring they remain committed to their studies.
“My advice to anybody coming up is, first things first, believe in yourself,” he said.
The singer further warned students against dropping out for music careers, insisting that education remains the foundation for long-term success.
“Leave music and go to school,” he advised.
Babcock University Hails Davido’s Impact
Welcoming the singer back to campus, Professor Ojewole described the visit as historic and symbolic for the institution.
He referred to Babcock as Davido’s home and praised the Adeleke family for their longstanding support to the university.
According to the Vice Chancellor, the family contributed significantly to the establishment of the university’s music department and has funded several initiatives, including scholarships and hostel projects.
“You know that I’m here because of all of that. So when I say Davido is welcome home, I really mean it,” the VC said.
He added that the university proudly celebrates Davido’s global achievements and expressed hope that the music department would one day evolve into the “David Adeleke School of Music and Creative Arts.”
The university management also appreciated the singer for honoring the invitation despite his busy international schedule.
Meanwhile, the Head of the Music Department, Dr. Segun Ojuola, described the visit as a groundbreaking homecoming for one of the institution’s most celebrated alumni.
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