Davido Honors Late Mother with Hostel Commission at Abia Private University (VIDEO)

Nigerian music superstar Davido has commissioned a female hostel at Clifford University, Abia State, naming the facility in honor of his late mother, Dr Veronica Adeleke.

The inauguration coincided with the university’s convocation ceremony, where Davido also delivered an inspiring commencement speech to the graduating class.

In a video shared on his Instagram page, the singer, accompanied by his 30BG crew and friend Cubana Chief, spoke passionately about his mother’s enduring influence on his life and career. He described Dr Adeleke as a teacher, giver, and visionary who believed in the transformative power of education and compassion.

“Standing before the graduating class of Clifford University today, giving the commencement speech, I felt something bigger than music. I saw a generation ready to change everything. When I looked into their faces, I saw the same fire that built me, that hunger to be seen, to make something out of nothing, to turn pain into power. I told them that talent might open the door, but purpose gives it meaning,” he said.

Davido encouraged the students to use their talents and platforms not only for personal gain but also to uplift others and create lasting impact.

“We live in a time where young people carry the future of Africa in their hands. It’s our time, but it’s also our test to use our platforms, our influence, and our voices to build, not just for ourselves, but for the next ones coming after us. As artists, as dreamers, as believers, we must lead by example. We must show that true greatness is not measured only in numbers, but in impact,” he added.

The singer explained that the hostel is more than a tribute to his late mother; it represents the continuation of her purpose and her belief in education as a tool for empowerment.

“My mother, Dr Veronica Adeleke, understood that long before I did. She was a teacher, a giver, a woman who believed that education and compassion could change lives. Everything I am, the music, the drive, the heart, came from her. Today, I had the honour of inaugurating a hostel at Clifford University named after her. Walking through that building and seeing the smiles of the students who would live there, I realised this was more than a tribute. It was a continuation of her purpose, turning love into legacy, one life at a time,” Davido said.

He concluded by highlighting the importance of lifting others as a path to collective growth and success:

“This moment reminded me that even when our parents are gone, their lessons remain alive in what we build, in who we lift, and in how we love. This one’s for her, for every young African chasing their dream, and for everyone who believes we can rise higher, together. We Rise By Lifting Others.”