Studying abroad has always been our family tradition — Davido

Afrobeats superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has revealed that studying abroad has been a long-standing tradition in his family, saying the culture predates his generation.

Speaking during an interview circulating on social media, the singer said his family’s educational journey abroad began with his grandfather, who ensured all his children studied outside Nigeria.

“My grandfather was a senator. So, like most of his kids, he would send them to America. My dad went to university in Kentucky,” Davido said.

He explained that his father attended Bowling Green in Kentucky, describing overseas education as a family tradition that has continued across generations.

“So this has been going on for generations,” he said. “I’m going to keep it 100. This is the one thing that we know. Rich Africans send their kids to white schools. Let’s just be clear.”

Davido also disclosed that his parents first met in London before later building their family, adding that his mother is from Edo State while his father is Yoruba, with Igbo roots through his grandmother.

“My dad and my mom actually first met in London,” he said.

The award-winning singer further revealed that his mother later travelled to the United States for postgraduate studies, reinforcing the family’s long-standing connection with America.

“My mom actually did her master’s in Clark. So, you know, America has always been a thing for my family. We’ve always been coming out here,” he said.

Davido said growing up between Nigeria and the United States gave him valuable exposure that has positively influenced both his personal life and music career, describing the experience as one of the defining factors behind his global outlook.