Nigerian music star Davido turned a high-profile performance in Los Angeles into a moment of advocacy, spotlighting the ongoing kidnapping of schoolchildren and teachers in southwestern Nigeria. Appearing at the FIFA World Cup 2026 Countdown Concert, the singer wore a custom jacket bearing the names of victims abducted on May 15 from three schools in Oyo State’s Oriire area, bringing international attention to a crisis that has lingered for weeks.
Gunmen reportedly stormed Baptist Nursery and Primary School, Community Grammar School, and L.A. Primary School in a coordinated attack, arriving on motorcycles and seizing dozens of victims, including children as young as two years old, teachers, and even a toddler. At least two educators were killed during the assault, according to local reports. Nearly a month after the incident, the captives are still being held, with families alleging torture and mounting ransom demands from the abductors.
Davido, known for blending entertainment with social commentary, paused during his performance to address the crowd. “We need to bring them back home,” he said, urging fans to pray for the safe return of the victims and for peace in affected communities. The emotional appeal came before he launched into songs tied to the World Cup soundtrack, drawing a stark contrast between celebration and crisis.
The incident in Oriire reflects a broader pattern of school-targeted kidnappings in parts of Nigeria, where armed groups have increasingly turned to abduction for ransom as a source of income. While authorities have pledged action, families of the victims say progress has been slow, with little official communication on rescue efforts.
Security analysts note that such attacks continue to expose gaps in rural school protection and highlight the need for coordinated federal and state responses. “Until there’s sustained pressure and better intelligence operations, these incidents will persist,” a Lagos-based security expert said.
By using an international platform tied to one of the world’s biggest sporting events, Davido’s gesture has amplified global awareness of the situation in Oyo State. For many watching, the performance served as a reminder that beyond the spectacle of football and music, urgent humanitarian concerns remain unresolved.
As the countdown to the World Cup continues, families of the abducted children are still waiting for answers, and hoping that the spotlight now shining on their plight may help bring their loved ones home.
BRING THEM HOME 🇳🇬🌎🙏 #fifaworldcup2026 pic.twitter.com/xpyywmpf7B
— Davido (@davido) June 11, 2026
Thanks @davido pic.twitter.com/jfPKr5m6wk
— oseni rufai (@ruffydfire) June 11, 2026