Nigerian Afrobeats star Davido has emphasized the importance of effective leadership in propelling Nigeria and Africa towards unprecedented success. In a candid interview with Elevate Africa, which was released on Thursday on YouTube, the globally renowned artist shared his thoughts on the remarkable resilience of Nigerians and the untapped potential of the nation if visionary leaders guide it.
“We can’t go forward without the best leaders now,” Davido asserted. “That’s the most important thing.”
Though he highlighted the incredible adaptability and determination of Nigerians, Davido expressed concern that the country’s lack of visionary leadership has stunted its growth. According to the singer, the right leadership is the key missing element to unlocking Nigeria’s full potential.
When asked about Africa’s future and how music can help guide the continent, Davido reflected on Nigeria’s resilience, particularly its people’s ability to thrive in the face of adversity.
“I tell people, I say if you can survive in Lagos or Nigeria, you can survive anywhere,” he said. “We’re survivors; we’re strong-willed people.”
He also pointed to the global presence of Nigerians as proof of the nation’s influence and reach. From bustling Nigerian communities to Nigerian restaurants found in cities worldwide, he believes these indicators highlight the strength of Nigerian culture and its people.
“Nigeria, if you go anywhere in the world, everybody has Nigerian friends. Whether you’re Chinese or… you have Nigerian friends everywhere in the world,” Davido noted. “I fly to do shows, Nigerian restaurants are there, and Nigerian communities are there. It just shows that we’re a force.”
For Davido, this worldwide influence is a sign that Nigeria has the potential to lead on the global stage. However, he remains convinced that only effective governance can unlock this promise.
“The only thing missing is just the right leaders to lead us,” he concluded. “Once we get that right, I don’t think there’s anything that will stop us.”
