Grammy-nominated artist Davido sparked controversy during a recent interview on The Beat 96.1. This offers a sharp critique of Nigeria’s current economic landscape.

He advised Black Americans planning to return to Nigeria to reconsider their plans. He described the country as experiencing its most severe economic crisis following President Bola Tinubu’s reforms.

The singer highlighted the Nigerian entertainment industry. Particularly, Afrobeats is a crucial global export that elevates the nation’s international profile.

Despite acknowledging Nigeria’s abundant talent, Davido lambasted the country’s leadership, characterising it as fundamentally inadequate.

Davido said yall black Americans that think you’re gonna get a fresh start in Africa after the 2024 presidential election… you might want to reconsider that dual citizenship

Africa is NOT it rn🥺☹️ pic.twitter.com/fkuTCAbmD3

— 🎈Yaq🅴🎈AKA THE BIG SHARK🦈 (@BigHomieKODAQ) November 20, 2024

Following Davido’s interview criticising Nigeria’s economic condition, critics have lambasted the artist for his candid assessment of the nation’s financial challenges.

His comments sparked immediate debate about the country’s economic state and the role of public figures in national discourse.

In a television morning show, one of the hosts criticised Davido’s timing, noting that President Tinubu was simultaneously attending the G8 summit in Brazil to secure foreign investments.

“Education does not guarantee you knowledge and Davido is a prime example of that. Cus he speaks without rẽasoning”

-Tvc News pic.twitter.com/03TgbexCOM

— Arthur🇳🇬🇬🇧🇸🇳 (@AjMachalaa) November 25, 2024

The interview divided public opinion, with some Nigerians condemning his remarks as potentially damaging to the country’s global image.

Conversely, other Nigerians praised Davido’s commentary as an authentic representation of the nation’s economic struggles. They highlighted the growing economic pressures pushing millions into deeper poverty amid skyrocketing inflation.

Escalating the controversy, Davido alleged a coordinated effort to cancel his December concert in response to his interview.

He defiantly stated he would not be compelled to perform in Nigeria, echoing his history of challenging government narratives.

This is not Davido’s first confrontation with government supporters. During the 2020 EndSARS protests, he claimed external pressures forced him to temporarily leave the country due to his active participation.

The ongoing dispute underscores the complex interactions between Nigerian artists, economic challenges, and political discourse.

With Davido emerging as a vocal critic, he is willing to challenge prevailing narratives about the nation’s economic and political realities.

“I am honoured to take on the position of Managing Director at Trino Motion Pictures. I am ready to lead our talented team toward groundbreaking achievements and to employ our core values of efficiency, integrity, professionalism, and innovation to elevate our storytelling capabilities, ensure our content is always accessible, and expand our presence globally,” he said.