Afrobeats megastar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has immortalized his late mother, Dr. Veronica Adeleke, by commissioning a female hostel named after her at Clifford University in Abia State.
The unveiling took place during the institution’s convocation ceremony, where Davido also addressed graduating students with an inspiring commencement speech.
In a video shared on his Instagram page, the singer, joined by his 30BG crew and close associate Cubana Chief Priest, expressed deep emotion as he reflected on his mother’s enduring influence on his life and values. He described her as a compassionate educator whose legacy continues to guide him.
“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 said.
He urged the graduates to live with purpose and use their platforms for the benefit of others, stressing that true greatness lies in impact, not popularity.
“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,” he added.
Speaking further, Davido revealed that the newly inaugurated facility, named Veronica Adeleke Female Hostel, represents more than just a memorial — it is a continuation of his mother’s vision to transform lives through education and compassion.
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“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. Today, I had the honour of inaugurating a hostel at Clifford University named after her. Walking through that building and seeing the smiles of the students who would live there, I realised this was more than a tribute. It was a continuation of her purpose — turning love into legacy, one life at a time,” Davido stated.
The Unavailable crooner concluded his address with an emotional message about the lasting influence of parents and the need to uplift 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.”
Davido’s mother, Dr. Veronica Adeleke, who was a lecturer and philanthropist, passed away in 2003 at the age of 40. Her memory has remained a strong inspiration for the singer, who frequently pays tribute to her in his music and public life.
In November 2024, Davido celebrated what would have been her 61st birthday, penning an emotional note expressing how much he misses and loves her.
During his traditional wedding to Chioma in June 2024, Davido paid homage to his late mother through his second attire, inspired by her Edo heritage. A month later, he also shared a photo of her younger days, fondly describing her as “a baddie.”
Over the years, Davido has continuously honoured his mother’s memory through acts of kindness and philanthropy — most recently by ensuring her legacy lives on through the new hostel, symbolizing her belief that education can change lives.