Afrobeats star, David Adeleke, also known as Davido, has shared why he often lives in the United States and how he strongly identifies as both Nigerian and American.
In a recent interview on The Breakfast Club podcast, the award-winning singer said he was born in Atlanta, Georgia, and proudly called himself an American. He made the comment while talking about working with international artists on his upcoming album.
“I’m American, you know what I’m saying. It’s different for me,” Davido said.
He explained that he enjoys when international artists come to Nigeria to experience his culture. According to him, many of them are always surprised by how much love he receives from fans at home.
“I love it when they come. I’d rather you come and see my culture. Most times when they come and then they see how it is, they’re like ‘Wow,’” he said.
The singer recalled a conversation with one of the artists on his new album who was shocked by how popular Davido is in Nigeria.
“He asked me, ‘Why do you come to America? Your life is so dope here. I’ve never seen this kind of stardom before,’” Davido said.
When asked if Nigerians get upset when he says he is American, Davido replied:
“No. In Nigeria, when you say you’re American, it’s okay. They know it’s from naturalization, but they know I still rep Africa, rep Nigeria. I’m always home every chance I get.”
He also gave more details about his background. Davido said he was the youngest of five children and the only one who lived in Nigeria with their parents. His other siblings stayed in London and the U.S.
“We had a house in Atlanta, so every summer we used to come. I didn’t move to stay in the U.S. till I was around 14 or 15,” he said.
“I grew up in Sandy Springs, but my cousins lived in Gwinnett on the north side. That’s where I really experienced real Atlanta culture. I started tapping in with the Jordans,” he added.
Davido has always been open about dual citizenship in the past.
In 2024, he voted US presidential election, which confirms his active status as an American citizen.
In December 2023, Davido was officially honoured as an “Outstanding Georgia Citizen” by the State of Georgia.
