Davido Faces Backlash After Claiming Artistes Earn $400k for Naming Ceremonies
Lagos, May 29, 2025 – Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Davido has ignited a storm of debate and criticism after stating in a recent interview that artists in Nigeria can earn as much as $400,000 for performing at private events, including naming ceremonies. The claim, made during his appearance on the podcast Tap In With TT, has trended widely across social media, sparking both skepticism and astonishment among fans and industry observers.
The Claim and Its Context
Davido explained,
“In Nigeria, you can get booked for a naming ceremony – $400K. It’s just like in India, they celebrate everything. Whether it’s a wedding or birthday, once there’s money involved, the highlight is having a big artist perform.”235
He drew parallels with Indian culture, emphasizing how wealthy Nigerian families often spare no expense to make personal events memorable by hiring top entertainers.
Social Media and Public Reactions
The statement quickly went viral, with many Nigerians expressing disbelief at the figure, especially given the country’s current economic climate. Social media platforms were flooded with mixed reactions:
- @Uptown_Lagos: “This guy no dey rest, how many interviews has he done this year so far? Too many to count.”
- @its_marktony: “Linus you don come again abi.”
- @DennIk49024: “This guy and to Dey talk nonsense for podcast.”
- @Riqueza0: “As all of una dey talk say na lie, I no wan hear say them pay Burna or Wiz anything wey carry billion for back for this Nigeria…”23
Some users accused Davido of exaggeration or being out of touch with everyday Nigerians, while others marveled at the earning power of Nigeria’s top-tier artists.
Industry and Peer Response
The backlash comes amid ongoing scrutiny of celebrity lifestyles in Nigeria. Davido, known for his extravagant displays of wealth and high-profile performances, has previously flaunted large paychecks and luxury acquisitions, further fueling perceptions of extravagance. Despite the criticism, supporters argue that the superstar’s success and demand at elite events are a testament to his influence and the global appeal of Afrobeats15.
Additional Developments
- Davido has continued to make headlines for other reasons, including a recent reunion with his daughter, Imade, public appearances with Nollywood stars, and the launch of his new restaurant venture, “The 5IVE Kitchen.”1
- The singer’s comments have also reignited broader conversations about income inequality, the realities of the Nigerian entertainment industry, and the disconnect between celebrity culture and the average citizen.
Broader Conversation
Davido’s remarks have become a flashpoint for discussions about wealth, celebrity influence, and economic disparity in Nigeria. While the music industry continues to break international barriers, many Nigerians face economic uncertainty and rising living costs, making such claims particularly controversial.
