Global music icon David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, returned to his alma mater, Babcock University, 11 years after graduation, promising to give back to the institution that shaped his career.
He was received by the President/Vice Chancellor, Professor Afolarin Ojewole, and other officers of the University, including Head of Music Department, Dr Segun Ojuola.
Davido visited his department, granted a one-on-one interview at WAD Media Studio and toured both the main and mini campuses. Speaking to the media, he said he cannot tell his story without mentioning Babcock. “You know that I can’t even talk about my story without mentioning Babcock,” he said.
The singer pledged to expand the music department and provide it with a dedicated building equipped to international standards. “I feel like it’s a department that needs its own building, and furnishing the music department with the required equipment, just like the personal one I recently did in Lagos. It’s going to be a high-class music studio. So, I’m ready to donate and give back to the school and make sure we have proper standards,” he stated.
He added that “music is oil and creativity right now is oil, too,” and expressed hope to finalise plans with the VC before the end of the year.
Reflecting on his time at Babcock, Davido said the university taught him discipline, which has helped his career. He also recalled meeting his wife, Chioma, at Babcock and noted that many of his early fans came from the student body.
On his impression of the university after 11 years, he observed that several new buildings have sprung up since his student days. The music icon advised young people to prioritise education before pursuing fame, money, and music.
“I studied the music, taught myself, self-taught. My advice to anybody coming up is, first things first, believe in yourself,” he said.
He urged students combining streaming and studies to “leave music and go to school,” stressing that education remains the bedrock of everything.
The Vice Chancellor, Professor Ojewole, described the visit as significant for the new administration and called Babcock “home” for Davido. He recalled that the university’s charter and the establishment of the music department were made possible through the support of Davido’s family. He also noted that the family has funded a hostel named after Davido’s grandfather and provided scholarships for many students, including the President.
“You know that I’m here because of all of that. So when I say Davido is welcome home, I really mean it. We boast about you, we dance to your music, and we celebrate you,” said Professor Ojewole.
He expressed hope that the music department would eventually grow to be named the David Adeleke School of Music and Creative Arts. He also invited Davido to future events, including graduation. The President thanked Davido for keeping the visit despite a busy schedule and prayed for God’s blessings on him, saying, “We don’t take it for granted, and we want you to know we love Davido in this place.”
For an excited Dr Ojuola, “This is a groundbreaking event and a homecoming for one of our own, a global icon.”
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