Afrobeats star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has hit back at criticism over his recent remarks about Nigeria’s economic struggles, stating emphatically that he is a “real ambassador” of the country.
The controversy began after Davido’s appearance on The Big Homies House podcast, where he discouraged Black Americans from relocating to Nigeria due to its economic challenges. Speaking on the podcast, Davido said, “It is not cool back home. The economy is in shambles.”
He further highlighted the nation’s pressing issues, including a volatile exchange rate and rising oil prices. “The exchange rate is messed up, a lot of things are not going well. Imagine a country that produces oil paying more for it than a country importing oil,” he remarked.
Critics Call Out Davido
Following the interview, the singer faced backlash from public figures who accused him of tarnishing Nigeria’s image on a global stage. Akashat Ny’mat, a presenter on TVC, argued that Davido’s comments, while factual, were inappropriate in an international setting.
“When the President takes a plane to a country to look for foreign investors and a prominent figure like Davido says this, he is essentially telling them not to come,” Ny’mat said during a segment on her program.
Davido Stands His Ground
Unfazed by the criticism, Davido took to X (formerly Twitter) to defend himself. “Lmao #tvcnewsng nah today? You all are mad ‘cus we the real ambassadors,” he wrote.
The singer also expressed pride in his delivery during the podcast. “The way my accent be for that interview dey sweet me very demure,” he tweeted in Pidgin English.
In response to speculation that his remarks might lead to the cancellation of his shows in Nigeria, Davido dismissed the concerns. “Dem say dem go cancel my show cus of my interview … loooool I don’t have to perform in Nigeria,” he said.
A Global Influencer
Since breaking into the music scene in 2012 with his hit single “Dami Duro” from the album Omo Baba Olowo, Davido has grown to become one of Africa’s most influential artists. His remarks have reignited debates about balancing national loyalty with speaking candidly about socio-economic realities.
For now, Davido remains unapologetic, cementing his position as both a critic and an ambassador of Nigeria.
