The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general elections, Peter Obi, has praised Afrobeats superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, for using his appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup countdown concert to draw global attention to Nigeria’s worsening insecurity and the plight of abducted schoolchildren.
Obi described the singer’s action as a patriotic gesture that went beyond entertainment and demonstrated the responsibility public figures have in speaking up for vulnerable citizens.
The former Anambra State governor made the remarks in a statement posted on his official X handle late Sunday, where he commended Davido for turning one of the world’s biggest sporting stages into a platform for advocacy.
Davido had appeared at the FIFA World Cup countdown concert wearing a customized leather jacket bearing the names of pupils and teachers recently abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The jacket also carried a bold message on the back that read: “BRING THEM HOME.”
The striking outfit immediately attracted attention from fans and viewers around the world, with many interpreting it as a direct appeal for the release of the victims and a call for urgent action against insecurity in Nigeria.
Reacting to the singer’s gesture, Obi said it deserved commendation because it brought international focus to a crisis that many Nigerians have continued to endure.
“Davido’s impactful gesture in drawing global attention to Nigeria’s security challenges warrants commendation,” Obi wrote.
“He prominently displayed the names of schoolchildren who had been held captive for an extended period, advocating for their safe return.”
“By utilizing his international platform, Davido effectively highlighted Nigeria’s security crisis, transcending mere entertainment.”
Obi said the worsening insecurity across the country requires urgent attention, not only from the Nigerian authorities but also from the international community.
According to him, the inability of government institutions to adequately address the challenge has made it necessary for influential Nigerians to continue speaking out.
The former governor argued that Davido’s action reflected the growing concern among citizens over the frequency of kidnappings, attacks on communities and the continued abduction of schoolchildren.
In recent years, mass kidnappings have become one of Nigeria’s most troubling security challenges.
Several schools, particularly in northern parts of the country, have been targeted by armed groups seeking ransom payments. Although some victims have eventually regained their freedom, many families have endured months of uncertainty and trauma.
The recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State once again brought national attention to the issue and reignited calls for stronger security measures to protect schools and communities.
Obi also linked Davido’s World Cup appearance to a broader conversation about Nigeria’s unrealized potential.
He had earlier expressed disappointment over the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, arguing that the country’s absence from football’s biggest tournament reflected leadership shortcomings rather than a lack of talent.
According to him, Nigerians continue to excel globally in sports, entertainment and other sectors despite the difficult environment at home.
“Nigeria’s absence from the World Cup, as I previously stated, stems not from a lack of talent but from a conspicuous deficiency in political leadership that has failed to create an enabling environment for talent development,” Obi said.
He noted that Nigeria’s influence remained visible throughout the tournament through the achievements of its citizens.
“This assertion is underscored by two notable occurrences during the tournament: the vibrant participation and impressive performances of Nigerian artists, and the presence of numerous Nigerians representing other nations on the field,” he stated.
“These observations present a significant imperative for Nigeria’s political leaders to actively foster an environment in which the nation’s youth can fully realize their potential.”
Obi’s comments have reopened debates about the country’s inability to harness the talents of its youthful population despite its enormous human resources.
Ironically, while Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Nigerian culture has remained one of the tournament’s major attractions.
Four of the country’s biggest music stars — Davido, Burna Boy, Rema and Ayra Starr were featured prominently on the official 2026 FIFA World Cup soundtrack album, further highlighting the global appeal of Nigerian music.
The tournament’s cultural celebrations also showcased Nigerian excellence.
Afrobeats giant Burna Boy joined Colombian pop icon Shakira during the opening ceremony at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, delivering a performance that drew widespread applause from football fans around the world.
Similarly, Nigerian music sensation Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, reportedly delivered one of the standout performances of the opening festivities.
For many Nigerians, the presence of the country’s entertainers at the World Cup has become a source of national pride, even as questions continue to be asked about why the nation’s football team failed to secure qualification.
Davido’s decision to use his outfit to advocate for abducted Nigerians has also generated praise on social media, with many describing it as a reminder that celebrities can use their influence to amplify important social issues.
Others argued that the gesture reflected the frustrations of ordinary Nigerians who have repeatedly demanded stronger government action against insecurity.
As discussions continue over the relationship between entertainment, activism and national development, Obi believes Davido’s action has sent a powerful message.
At a time when millions around the world were focused on football and celebration, the singer chose to remind global audiences that beyond the music and performances, many Nigerian families are still waiting for their loved ones to return home.
For the families of the abducted pupils and teachers, the message “Bring Them Home” represents more than a slogan. It is a plea for hope, justice and urgent action.