Afrobeats star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, used the FIFA World Cup countdown concert on Wednesday to call for the rescue of abducted pupils and teachers from Oyo State.
The singer appeared on stage in a customized black leather jacket. Green circular badges on the jacket carried the names of the victims. He wrote the names of those still in captivity in white. He marked those who lost their lives in red.
Davido used the global stage to draw attention to Nigeria’s security challenges, urged the Federal and Oyo State governments to intensify efforts to rescue the remaining victims.
Before taking the stage, Davido expressed sympathy for the affected families in a backstage video. He prayed for the safe return of everyone still in captivity.
“May God be with the families of the abducted and the ones who have been killed. They still haven’t been rescued, and we pray every day that the government hastens its intervention,” he said.
Davido added that he represents Nigeria wherever he performs. He urged leaders to address the country’s security challenges without delay.
Armed men attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area in May. They abducted dozens of pupils and teachers during the attacks. The incident sparked outrage across the country and renewed calls for stronger security.
The countdown concert marked another milestone ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States. FIFA chose Davido as one of the headline performers. The organization also selected Davido, Burna Boy, Rema and Ayra Starr for the tournament’s official soundtrack album. Their inclusion highlighted Nigeria’s growing influence on the global music scene.
