Davido says he spends N400m on orphanages every year
The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, received Afrobeat star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, during a courtesy visit.
Welcoming his guest on Monday, Akpabio expressed his delight at the visit and showered encomiums on the Afrobeat star for making Nigeria proud with his outstanding performances.
“You have made us very proud within the International Community,” Akpabio told Davido, who came in the company of two of his cousins, Tunji Adeleke, son of his late uncle, Senator, Isiaka Adeleke, and Folasade Adeleke, daughter of Osun State governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, among others.
Afro pop star, Davido and Senate President Godswill Akpabio during the visit.
The Senate President told his guests that, “we will do everything possible to support the entertainment industry.”
He, however, charged them to continue to maintain high ethics and resist peer influence that could derail them.
Akpabio said: “For me and the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it is an inclusive administration, and you must have noticed in my various outings, that we move as one, across party lines.
“Even though your administration is a PDP one we work across party lines for the interest of Nigeria. The only major thing that is common to all of us is the interest of this country and it is a country that has given you so much love.
“It is a country with a population that is unmatched anywhere else in Africa. Over 240 million Nigerians. So I want you to continue to remain a great Ambassador of our country. Don’t allow anybody to drag you into politics. Continue to do your best in the entertainment industry.”
Akpabio continued, “For us in the political arena, we value talents and what God has given to you, nobody can take it away from you. We do everything possible to support the industry. To support talented people like you. All we need also is patience and prayers so that we can succeed.
“Please do your best to continue to maintain the high ethics. What is happening in America with some of the black stars is quite unfortunate. For most of you in the industry, don’t allow peer group influence to derail you. Continue to do your best.
“The entertainment industry is like a pyramid. You start from the ground until you get there. When you are on top, your own is how to remain there. So anybody who walks on a tightrope must learn how to do the balancing act. And so, your job is to remain there.”
He added, “Our prayer is that God should sustain you there and continue to give you more wisdom and more talent for you to continue to make Nigeria proud. We are very proud of you.”
Speaking earlier, Davido informed the Senate President of his Foundation, which primarily offers assistance to the orphanages and also of his new album to be released in June or July.
L-R: Tunji Adeleke, son of Davido’s late uncle, Senator, Isiaka Adeleke, Davido; Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and Folasade Adeleke; daughter of Osun State governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, during the visit on Monday.
In their discussion, Davido highlighted the importance of private sector contributions to social welfare, noting that government efforts alone are not sufficient to address the needs of orphaned and abandoned children.
He explained that his annual expenditure on orphanages covers various necessities, including food, clothing, education, and medical care, ensuring that the children receive holistic support.
“As for me, I’m doing my part. I have a Foundation. Every year, I share N300million, N400million to orphanages. Just doing my part to assist society. We have a new album coming out in June or July. I just thank you for everything you have been doing for us,” Davido stated.
Senate President Akpabio commended Davido for his dedication and urged other celebrities and wealthy individuals to follow his example.
He stated that such philanthropic activities significantly complement governmental initiatives and play a crucial role in improving the lives of disadvantaged Nigerians.
Akpabio also assured Davido of the Senate’s support in creating policies that encourage and facilitate private contributions to social causes.
