SUNTV Global Channel | July 5, 2026
Afrobeats superstar Davido has defended his decision to spotlight the abduction of schoolchildren in Nigeria during the FIFA 2026 World Cup Countdown Concert in Los Angeles, insisting that the country’s worsening insecurity deserves global attention.
The award-winning singer came under criticism after performing in a jacket bearing the message “Bring Them Home”, alongside the names of 46 abducted pupils and teachers from Oyo State.
Speaking during an interview with BBC Focus on Africa, Davido said he could not remain silent while innocent children were still being held captive.
“A lot of people do not want to talk about what goes on in my country because they want to protect the image. But there is no image to protect if little kids are being kidnapped,” he said.
Davido explained that although it was a privilege to represent Nigeria on the global stage, he believed it was equally important to use the opportunity to highlight the security challenges facing the country.
According to the singer, public figures have a responsibility to use their influence to advocate for issues affecting society.
“My power is in music and performances. We have students who are still missing, so I used my platform to project what is really going on,” he added.
His symbolic protest drew international attention and reignited conversations about Nigeria’s security crisis and the continued captivity of abducted schoolchildren.
The incident has also renewed calls from civil society groups, activists, and concerned citizens for security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the safe release of the victims.
Meanwhile, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has repeatedly assured residents that every available resource is being deployed to rescue the abducted pupils, their teachers, and other victims, while urging citizens to remain hopeful.
Davido’s comments have further amplified demands for urgent action, with many Nigerians praising the singer for using his international platform to advocate for the safe return of the missing schoolchildren.
