Davido Commissions Female Hostel at Clifford University, Delivers Inspiring Speech to Graduating Students
Davido inspired graduates at Clifford University, Abia State, with an emotional commencement speech on success and purpose.
He also commissioned a female hostel named after his late mother, Dr. Veronica Adeleke.
Nigerian music star David Adedeji Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, on Saturday, October 19, delivered the commencement speech at Clifford University, Ihie, Abia State, during the school’s graduation ceremony.
Davido, who was accompanied by Cubana Chief Priest and other notable personalities, also inaugurated the Dr. Veronica Imade Adeleke Female Hostel Complex, a facility named in honor of his late mother.
He later shared highlights of the event in an emotional post on Sunday, October 20, via his official X account, reflecting on the powerful experience and the inspiration he drew from addressing the graduating class.
“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. 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 encouraged the graduates to use their voices and platforms to create positive change across Africa, stressing that true greatness lies in impact rather than fame.
“We live in a time where young people carry the future of Africa in their hands. It’s our time, but it’s also our test, to use our platforms, our influence, and our voices to build, not just for ourselves, but for the next ones coming after us. As artists, as dreamers, as believers, we must lead by example. We must show that true greatness is not measured only in numbers, but in impact.”
The “Unavailable” crooner also paid a heartfelt tribute to his late mother, Dr. Veronica Imade Adeleke, describing her as a compassionate teacher whose values continue to inspire his music and life.
“My mother, Dr. Veronica Adeleke, understood that long before I did. She 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.”
Speaking on the newly unveiled hostel, Davido said the project represented a continuation of his mother’s legacy and her lifelong dedication to empowering others.
“Today, I had the honor of inaugurating a hostel at Clifford University named after her. Walking through that building, 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.”
The Dr. Veronica Imade Adeleke Female Hostel Complex was commissioned under the leadership of Prof. Chimezie Allwell Omeonu, Vice-Chancellor of Clifford University, Ihie Campus.
Davido concluded his message with a moving reflection on legacy, love, and the importance of uplifting others.
“This moment reminded me that 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.”
