Nigerian music superstar, Davido, has sparked a heated conversation on drug use, openly sharing his views on cannabis.
In a recent interview on The Morning Hustle podcast, the globally celebrated singer boldly stated, “I don’t consider weed a hard drug.”
His comments have drawn mixed reactions, especially as he simultaneously pledged to support the fight against drug abuse among Nigerian youths.
The singer, whose real name is David Adeleke, defended his personal use of cannabis.
“Some people criticize me for smoking it, but I don’t see it as a drug,” he said during the interview.
While his remarks may resonate with fans who view weed as socially acceptable, critics argue that such statements risk normalizing its use among impressionable youths.
Davido’s comments come at a time when conversations about drug abuse are gaining traction in Nigeria, particularly with increasing concerns about addiction among young people.
“This year, I’m donating to the fight against drug abuse among youths,” he revealed.
The singer emphasized the urgent need to address the growing addiction crisis, acknowledging the struggles faced by many.
“A lot of people are going through difficult times. Drug addiction is becoming more widespread, so I want to donate to help those struggling to quit,” he added.
His comments highlight a duality: while he holds a permissive view of cannabis, he recognizes the devastating impact of drug addiction on Nigerian society.
As part of his philanthropic efforts, Davido’s foundation plans to channel resources toward orphanages and initiatives aimed at combating drug abuse.
This pledge aligns with his track record of using his platform to support social causes, from education to health care.
Observers say this initiative could play a pivotal role in raising awareness and providing much-needed support to those battling addiction.
Davido’s statements have ignited debate across social media platforms.
Fans praised him for being candid about his experiences, while others expressed concern over the potential influence of his remarks on younger audiences.
One Twitter user wrote, “Davido’s honesty is refreshing, but calling weed ‘not a drug’ sends the wrong message.”
Another user, however, defended the singer, tweeting, “He’s right. Weed isn’t the same as hard drugs like cocaine or heroin. Let’s focus on real problems.”
Such divided opinions reflect the broader societal discourse on drug use in Nigeria, where cannabis remains illegal but is widely consumed.
Cannabis, commonly referred to as weed or “igbo” in local parlance, is the most widely used illicit substance in Nigeria.
Despite its illegal status, the substance has gained popularity, particularly among young people.
Experts warn that the normalization of weed use, fueled by its portrayal in popular culture, could undermine efforts to curb drug abuse.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has repeatedly raised alarms about the increasing consumption of cannabis and its link to mental health issues.
However, advocates for legalization argue that regulated use could mitigate these risks while boosting economic opportunities
As a global music icon, Davido wields significant influence, especially among Nigerian youths.
His comments on weed highlight the delicate balance celebrities must maintain between personal expression and social responsibility.
While his philanthropic efforts to combat drug abuse are commendable, critics urge him to adopt a more cautious approach when discussing substances like cannabis.
Despite the controversy surrounding his remarks, Davido’s underlying message is clear: addiction is a pressing issue that requires collective action.
He urged fans and stakeholders to prioritize support for those struggling with substance abuse.
“Helping people quit drugs isn’t easy, but it’s something we must all work on,” he said during the interview.
