Year: 2025

Clifford University in Abia State has paid a touching tribute to Nigerian music star Davido’s late mother, Dr Veronica Adeleke, by naming a new hostel building after her — an honour the singer proudly commissioned himself. Sharing the emotional moment on Instagram, Davido reflected on how deeply it connected to his purpose and his mother’s lifelong commitment to education and compassion. “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,” he wrote. He spoke about purpose, resilience, and the responsibility young Africans carry in shaping the continent’s future. “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.” Davido described his late mother as the foundation of his drive and empathy, noting that her values continue to guide his journey. “My mother, Dr. Veronica Adeleke, 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 said inaugurating the hostel was a continuation of her mission to uplift others through love and learning. “Walking through that building and seeing the smiles of the students who will live there, I realized this was more than a tribute. It was a continuation of her purpose — turning love into legacy, one life at a time.” Davido ended his message with a reflection on legacy and hope: “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.”   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Davido (@davido)