Dedication of the Veronica Adeleke Female Hostel

 

Beyond the Music: Davido Commissions Hostel in Mother’s Honour, Preaches Purpose to Graduates

On Sunday, October 19, 2025, Afrobeats superstar David Adeleke, widely known as Davido, traded the concert stage for a university podium for a truly heartwarming and deeply personal event. The Grammy-nominated artist was in Abia State to commission a female hostel at Clifford University, a facility named in perpetual honour of his late mother, Dr. Veronica Adeleke.

The new building, the Veronica Imade Adeleke Female Hostel, was officially unveiled during the university’s 6th Convocation Ceremony. It was a day that seamlessly blended academic celebration with a powerful tribute to a legacy of education and philanthropy.

Turning Love into Legacy

Davido's dedication of the facility is more than just a donation; it's a living continuation of his mother’s life mission. Dr. Veronica Adeleke was an educationist and a giver, and her son was visibly emotional as he spoke about her enduring influence.

"My mother, Dr. Veronica Adeleke, was a teacher and giver who believed education and compassion could change lives," Davido shared. "This building is a continuation of her purpose—turning love into legacy."

He noted that seeing the smiles of the students who will reside there was a powerful reminder that his mother's spirit lives on through acts of kindness and empowerment.

The Message: Talent Opens Doors, Purpose Gives Meaning

As the keynote speaker for the Commencement Speech, Davido shifted his focus from hit songs to life lessons. He delivered a powerful and inspiring message to the graduating class, urging them to look beyond fame and wealth as the measure of success.

He stressed that true success is about impact, not numbers:

"True greatness is not about fame or numbers, but about the lives you touch and the change you inspire," he advised the new graduates. He further motivated them by saying, "Talent might open the door, but purpose gives it meaning."

He challenged young people to use their platforms, whatever they may be, to build for the next generation, proving once again that the Afrobeats star's influence extends far beyond music charts.

A Day of Goodwill

The emotional event was further highlighted by a surprise act of generosity. Popular nightlife entrepreneur and Davido’s close ally, Cubana Chief Priest, who was also in attendance, spontaneously pledged to pay the school fees for 50 students at the university.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Chimezie Omeonu, praised the star for his humility and commitment, describing the commissioning as a noble act that inspires hope and strengthens the culture of giving back.

For the students and attendees, it was a profound day, celebrating a moment where a global celebrity used his platform to honour family, promote education, and champion a message of purpose over vanity. It was a beautiful culmination of music, legacy, and service.