Senate President Godswill Akpabio warmly welcomed Grammy-nominated singer Davido during a courtesy visit in Abuja on Monday, May 20.
Akpabio expressed his delight and commended Davido for making the country proud, while also advising the singer to resist any temptations to enter politics.
“You have made us very proud within the International Community,” Akpabio said to him.
Davido was accompanied by two of his cousins, Tunji Adeleke, son of his late uncle, Senator Isiaka Adeleke, and Folasade Adeleke, daughter of Osun State governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, among others.
The Senate President, charging his guests, said everything would be done to support the entertainment industry while also admonishing them to maintain high ethics and resist peer influence that could derail them.
Akpabio said: “For me and the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it is an inclusive administration, and you must have noticed in my various outings, that we move as one, across party lines.
“Even though your administration is a PDP one we work across party lines for the interest of Nigeria. The only major thing that is common to all of us is the interest of this country and it is a country that has given you so much love.
“It is a country with a population that is unmatched anywhere else in Africa. Over 240 million Nigerians. So I want you to continue to remain a great Ambassador of our country. Don’t allow anybody to drag you into politics. Continue to do your best in the entertainment industry.”
Akpabio added: “For us in the political arena, we value talents and what God has given to you, nobody can take it away from you. We do everything possible to support the industry. To support talented people like you. All we need also is patience and prayers so that we can succeed.
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“Please do your best to continue to maintain the high ethics. What is happening in America with some of the black stars is quite unfortunate. For most of you in the industry, don’t allow peer group influence to derail you. Continue to do your best.
“The entertainment industry is like a pyramid. You start from the ground until you get there. When you are on top, your own way is how to remain there. So anybody who walks on a tightrope must learn how to do the balancing act. And so, your job is to remain there.”
He added: “Our prayer is that God should sustain you there and continue to give you more wisdom and more talent for you to continue to make Nigeria proud. We are very proud of you.”
On his part, Davido informed the Senate President of his Foundation and how it has been of great assistance to orphanages.
He stated that his annual expenditure on orphanages covers various necessities, including food, clothing, education, and medical care, ensuring that the children receive holistic support.
“As for me, I’m doing my part. I have a Foundation. Every year, I share N300 million, N400 million with orphanages. Just doing my part to assist society. We have a new album coming out in June or July. I just thank you for everything you have been doing for us,” Davido stated.
Senate President Akpabio showered encomiums on Davido for his dedication and urged other celebrities and wealthy individuals to follow his example.