Afrobeats superstar David Adeleke, widely known as Davido, has recently made headlines after honouring the memory of his late mother, Dr Veronica Adeleke, through the commissioning of a hostel named after her at Clifford University, Abia State. The gesture, which serves as both a tribute and a contribution to education, has sparked excitement and admiration from fans, students, and social media users across Nigeria.
The singer arrived at the university accompanied by members of his 30BG crew, as well as popular nightlife entrepreneur Cubana Chief Priest, to officially unveil the hostel. Students, staff, and fans were present to witness the event, with many describing the moment as both emotional and inspiring. The unveiling ceremony was marked by cheers, applause, and a shared sense of pride in seeing a legacy of compassion and education being immortalized through the infrastructure project.
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Davido honours his late mother
Speaking at the event, Davido reflected on his mother’s enduring legacy as a teacher, philanthropist, and education advocate. He explained that the hostel was more than a building; it was a symbol of Dr Veronica Adeleke’s belief in the power of knowledge, compassion, and guidance. “My mother dedicated her life to shaping young minds, instilling values of hard work, and demonstrating how kindness can transform lives,” he said. “Every brick of this hostel stands as a tribute to her influence, her teachings, and the unshakable values she imparted to me.”
Davido also highlighted the broader significance of the project for the students of Clifford University, stating that the hostel represents an opportunity for them to pursue their educational dreams in a supportive environment. He added that seeing the students’ smiles and excitement while touring the facility reaffirmed his commitment to leveraging his platform for meaningful societal impact.
Chioma reacts
His wife, Chioma, took to Instagram to express her admiration for the ceremony and the tribute. Describing the event as “so beautiful,” she shared her heartfelt reaction to the video, emphasizing the emotional resonance of the moment and the lasting impact of Davido’s tribute on the students and the community.
In his commencement speech, Davido elaborated on the significance of education, mentorship, and purpose. He encouraged the graduating class to embrace their potential, cultivate their talent, and pursue meaningful impact. “Standing before the graduating class of Clifford University today, 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 emphasized the responsibility of young Africans to lead by example, noting that true greatness is measured not by fame or wealth, but by the positive impact one creates in the lives of others. He dedicated the moment to his mother, saying, “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.”
He further explained that inaugurating the hostel was a continuation of his mother’s purpose, transforming love into legacy by creating opportunities for students who will benefit from the facility for years to come. “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,” he concluded.
The announcement and event quickly went viral across social media platforms, with fans praising Davido for honoring his late mother in such a meaningful way and highlighting the positive example he sets for young Africans pursuing their ambitions.
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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… pic.twitter.com/xwKhiBojvF
— Davido (@davido) October 19, 2025