Davido draws global attention to Oyo abductions at FIFA Countdown Concert
By Folashade Olorunfemi –
Nigerian Afrobeats star Davido has drawn global attention to ongoing security challenges in Nigeria, particularly the case of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State, during his performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup Countdown Concert in the United States.
The singer wore a customised black leather jacket bearing the inscription “BRING THEM HOME” and the names of some of the victims, alongside a white T-shirt with “NIGERIA” boldly printed on it, symbolising his solidarity with affected families.
In a viral backstage video from the event, Davido called for urgent government intervention to secure the release of the abducted victims and expressed support for their families.
“Peace and love everywhere. May God be with the families of the abducted and the ones who have been killed. They still haven’t been rescued. We’re praying to God every day. We’re also praying to God that the government hastens. My country is going through a lot. We represent everywhere we go,” he said.
The Grammy-nominated artiste performed alongside American singer Foster and Major Lazer, the electronic music group founded by producer and DJ Diplo, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles on Wednesday evening.
The concert was one of three simultaneous FIFA Countdown Concerts held across the United States, Canada and Mexico ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Davido’s appearance followed his announcement as one of the event’s headline performers, alongside fellow Nigerian Afrobeats stars Burna Boy, Rema and Ayra Starr.
According to music industry entrepreneur and New York University professor Clayton Durant, the FIFA Sound initiative, launched in 2021, was designed to connect audiences worldwide through the shared passions of football and music.
