Nigerian Afrobeats singer David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has said his planned three-night residency at the National Theatre in Lagos will demonstrate that Africa has world-class venues capable of hosting major international events.

Davido is scheduled to hold the residency, titled Oriadé: The Residency, from December 17 to 19, combining performances from his latest album with some of his biggest hits and appearances by collaborators.

The singer said bringing the production to Nigeria was important to him because of its potential to promote Nigerian culture and create economic opportunities around the entertainment industry.

He said his experience touring Africa and returning home had reinforced his desire to stage major productions in Nigeria rather than concentrating his performances abroad.

Davido said the idea was partly inspired by the economic and tourism impact of Bad Bunny’s 30-date residency in Puerto Rico in 2025, which attracted visitors and generated activity beyond the concert venue.

He expressed hope that his Lagos residency would similarly encourage international visitors to come to the city, particularly during December when Nigerians in the diaspora and foreign tourists traditionally visit Lagos for entertainment and cultural activities.

The singer said the newly renovated National Theatre was central to his plans because of its historical importance to Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

Comparing the venue with Madison Square Garden in New York, Davido said the residency would provide an opportunity to demonstrate to international audiences that African artists could stage major productions at home using world-class facilities.

He said Afrobeats’ international growth had created opportunities for Nigerian artists to perform around the world, but stressed the importance of maintaining strong connections with audiences at home.

Davido acknowledged that artists could earn more from international performances but said bringing major productions to Nigeria could create jobs and generate opportunities for local businesses and workers.

He also urged younger artists to remain connected to the audiences who supported them before they gained international recognition, stressing the importance of appreciating their home fans.

The residency will also mark 15 years of Davido’s music career, which began with his emergence on the Nigerian music scene and later expanded to international audiences.