Nigerian singer Davido says Bad Bunny’s 30-date residency in Puerto Rico inspired his decision to stage the Oriadé residency in Lagos.

In an interview with CNN, the 33-year-old singer explained his vision for the Lagos residency. He said Bad Bunny’s shows showed how major music events could create economic and cultural activity beyond the concerts.

Davido also drew inspiration from his tour of Africa last year. It was his first tour of the wider continent in eight years.

“Me just being home just gave me so much inspiration,” he said.

“This kind of feels better doing it from where you’re actually from. I don’t ever want to take that kind of break again away from my fans back home.”

Davido announces Lagos residency

Davido had earlier announced that he will headline ‘Oriadé: The Residency’ on December 17, 18 and 19, 2026.

The residency will feature songs from across his career. It will also include appearances from some of his collaborators.

The singer hopes the shows will attract visitors to Lagos. He also wants to introduce the city to people who have never visited.

“The talent in Lagos is mind-blowing,” he said. “Talent is like water in Lagos.”

‘We can do this ourselves’

The residency will take place at the newly renovated National Theatre. Davido described the venue as an important part of Nigeria’s entertainment history.

“It’s like our own MSG (Madison Square Garden) kind of thing,” he said.

“It’s very important that we show the outside world that we have these kinds of facilities in Africa as well,” he added. “We’re really showing people that we can do this ourselves.”

Davido acknowledged the financial difference between performing in Nigeria and overseas. However, he said bringing major events home remains important for Afrobeats and the culture.

“Everybody’s going to get a hit and run to America, run to the UK, run to the Middle East and do shows,” he said.

“But I feel like bringing everything back home is very important for the culture. We might not get paid as much as we get paid overseas.”

The singer also urged established artistes to remember the fans who supported them before they gained international recognition.

“Don’t forget where you started,” he said. “These are the fans. If not for these fans, we wouldn’t be here.”

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