Afrobeats megastar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has issued a stinging rebuke of Nigeria’s political leadership, describing the country’s governments as the “worst.” In a candid interview with Apple Music’s Ebro Darden, the award-winning artist contrasted Nigeria’s poor governance with the booming success of its entertainment industry, which he credits for reshaping the country’s global image and attracting international attention.
In the interview, which aired on Apple Music 1, Davido did not mince words when reflecting on Nigeria’s leadership and the challenges faced by the nation. “I am happy that entertainment switched the narrative,” he said. “We [Nigerians] don’t have the best leaders. We have the worst governments.”
His comments come at a time of growing frustration among Nigerian youths, many of whom feel neglected by the political class and stifled by persistent issues such as insecurity, unemployment, corruption, and failing infrastructure. Davido’s remarks strike a chord with millions of Nigerians who have increasingly turned to music and creative arts as both an escape and a platform for expression.
Despite the grim assessment of the political landscape, Davido remained optimistic about the transformative role of the entertainment industry, which he said has played a crucial role in enhancing Nigeria’s reputation abroad. “The music and entertainment industry in general has impacted our country’s image abroad positively,” he emphasized.
The “Unavailable” hitmaker highlighted how Nigeria’s creative scene—particularly Afrobeats—has not only changed perceptions but also boosted tourism and cultural exchange. According to Davido, the trend of foreigners, especially Americans, visiting Nigeria is on the rise. “Last December, there were more Americans than Nigerians in Lagos. I was like, what are you all doing here?” he said with amusement.
Nigerian Culture on the Global Stage
Davido, who has become one of Africa’s most recognized music exports, noted that the shift is not just musical but cultural. “It is not just music, it is the culture as a whole,” he said. “If you go to Paris Fashion Week, about 80 per cent of the models are Africans, the same with the creative directors. It’s impressive.”
Indeed, in recent years, Nigerian music, fashion, film, and art have been at the forefront of a global cultural revolution. With stars like Burna Boy, Wizkid, Tems, and Davido topping international charts and performing on global stages, Afrobeats has become a powerful ambassador for the continent.
Fashion designers, visual artists, and stylists of Nigerian descent have also made significant inroads into the global creative space, earning accolades and recognition in fashion capitals such as Paris, Milan, and New York.
Entertainment as a Tool for Soft Power
Analysts and cultural commentators have pointed to Nigeria’s entertainment industry as a growing source of soft power, capable of influencing perceptions and projecting a more nuanced, vibrant image of the country beyond its political and economic struggles.
Davido’s own career is a testament to this phenomenon. From collaborating with international stars like Chris Brown and Nicki Minaj to selling out arenas across the world, he has positioned himself as a cultural ambassador and a symbol of Nigerian excellence.
His music, often laced with themes of resilience, love, and celebration, resonates with a global audience and showcases the richness of African rhythms and storytelling.
Call for Better Governance
However, while Davido celebrated the achievements of his industry, he did not shy away from calling for accountability and better leadership. His remarks serve as a reminder that while culture can inspire and uplift, it cannot replace functional governance or solve structural problems.
“Nigerians are some of the most talented and creative people in the world,” he said. “But imagine what we could achieve if we had good leadership. We need leaders who believe in the people and invest in them.”
This is not the first time Davido has spoken out about political issues. In 2020, he was vocal during the #EndSARS protests, a youth-led movement that demanded an end to police brutality and better governance in Nigeria. He has continued to use his platform to raise awareness about issues affecting the youth and to advocate for change.
Tourism on the Rise Amid Entertainment Boom
Tourism is another sector benefitting from the entertainment explosion. With events like Detty December, the annual celebration that sees thousands of visitors flock to Lagos for concerts, festivals, and cultural experiences, Nigeria is becoming a hot destination despite its infrastructural and security challenges.
“People want to experience the energy, the food, the fashion, and the music,” Davido said. “It’s beautiful to see.”
He credited the creative community for putting Nigeria on the map in a way that is tangible and inspiring. “We have something special,” he said. “And the world is finally paying attention.”
Conclusion
Davido’s blunt critique of Nigeria’s leadership, paired with his praise for the entertainment industry’s global influence, highlights a growing divide between the country’s political class and its creative elite. While government failures continue to hamper development, artists like Davido are rewriting the narrative through culture, innovation, and global impact.
His message is clear: Nigeria has the potential to lead not just in Africa, but globally—but only if it addresses the foundational problems of governance and invests in its most valuable resource: its people.
