Grammy-nominated Nigerian music superstar, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has continued to cement his status as a leading African cultural figure with a high-profile visit to Sierra Leone. The artist paid a courtesy call on the nation's President, Julius Maada Bio, in Freetown, before delivering an electrifying performance at a sold-out beach concert.
A Warm Presidential Welcome in Freetown
The meeting between Davido and President Bio took place as a key part of the singer's ongoing 5ive Alive World Tour. During their interaction, Davido expressed a deep affection for Sierra Leone, describing the country as his "second home." He fondly recalled his last visit in 2017, which featured a massive crowd and remains one of his most memorable West African shows.
President Bio warmly received the Afrobeats icon, acknowledging the widespread excitement his visit had generated across the nation. The anticipation was particularly high for the upcoming beach concert, which was tied to the festivities surrounding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Photographs from the State House meeting quickly went viral on social media, with fans celebrating Davido's expanding influence and his evolving role as a cultural ambassador for the continent.
Electrifying Night at Sugarland Beach
Following the presidential visit, Davido transformed Sugarland Beach in Freetown into a pulsating arena of music and excitement. He headlined the sold-out Gbamgbaode Festival, making a dramatic entrance through thick smoke accompanied by towering stilt performers dressed in traditional Salone attire.
The hitmaker thrilled the massive audience with a run of his crowd favourites, including anthems like "Fall" and "Sensational." The energy was palpable, with Sierra Leone's First Lady, Fatima Maada Bio, spotted among the enthusiastic crowd. Many attendees and online commentators later described the concert as a standout cultural moment for the nation.
Continuing a Landmark Year for African Music
Davido's Sierra Leone engagement comes hot on the heels of another major continental milestone. Just days earlier, on Sunday, December 21st, 2025, he performed at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Rabat, Morocco.
Held at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, the ceremony officially kicked off Africa's premier football tournament. Davido shared the stage with American rap star French Montana to perform the newly released official AFCON 2025 soundtrack. Their performance was met with loud cheers from thousands in the stadium and praise from millions watching globally, setting a high bar for the tournament.
This series of high-profile appearances underscores Davido's significant influence beyond music, positioning him as a key figure in promoting African culture on the world stage. From state houses to stadiums and beaches, his 5ive Alive World Tour is proving to be a powerful showcase of Afrobeats' global reach and soft power.
