Nigerian music star Davido says he used his 2026 FIFA World Cup performance to draw global attention to the Oyo school kidnap victims, insisting Nigeria’s insecurity should never be hidden from the world.
Nigerian music superstar Davido has explained the reason behind his emotional tribute to the victims of the Oyo school kidnapping during the opening ceremony of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The singer said his decision was intentional, stressing that the growing insecurity in Nigeria deserves global attention instead of silence.
According to reports monitored by Valid9ja, Davido said he does not believe in protecting the country’s image while innocent children and families continue to suffer from kidnappings and violence. He explained that his appearance on one of the world’s biggest stages gave him a rare opportunity to speak for people whose voices may never be heard beyond Nigeria. The award-winning singer added that music has always been more than entertainment for him, saying it can also be used to inspire conversations about important national issues.
Valid9ja gathered that the singer responded to reactions from some Nigerians who questioned why he chose an international event to highlight the country’s security challenges. While some critics argued that such a message could damage Nigeria’s reputation, Davido insisted that ignoring the problem would only make matters worse. According to him, there is “no image to protect” if children are still being abducted and families are forced to live in fear. He maintained that the safety of citizens should always come before concerns about how the country is viewed abroad.
Information obtained by Valid9ja shows that the tribute focused on the victims of the recent Oyo school kidnapping, an incident that attracted widespread concern across the country. The singer noted that international performances provide a powerful platform to raise awareness and encourage global support. He believes influential Nigerians should use every opportunity available to shine a light on issues affecting ordinary citizens instead of remaining silent. Davido also expressed hope that greater attention to the crisis would encourage stronger efforts to improve security and protect vulnerable communities.
The singer’s comments have sparked fresh conversations on social media, with many Nigerians sharing different opinions. While some praised him for speaking boldly about the country’s security situation, others argued that such discussions should remain within Nigeria. Despite the mixed reactions, many supporters believe his message reflects the frustration of citizens who want lasting solutions to insecurity rather than public relations campaigns. The debate has once again highlighted the urgent need for authorities to strengthen security measures and restore public confidence across affected communities.
Davido’s decision has shown how entertainment can go beyond music to address issues that affect millions of people. Whether people agree with his approach or not, the conversation has drawn fresh attention to the importance of protecting lives and ensuring children can learn without fear. In the opinion of Valid9ja, public figures have the right to speak about national challenges, especially when their influence can help bring global awareness. However, lasting change will depend on concrete action from government authorities and security agencies, not only on powerful messages delivered on international stages.