Nigerian Afrobeats superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, used his performance at the FIFA 2026 World Cup Countdown Concert in Los Angeles to draw global attention to the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State.
The award-winning singer appeared on stage at the Crypto.com Arena on Wednesday wearing a customised black leather jacket emblazoned with the message “BRING THEM HOME”, transforming one of football’s biggest pre-tournament celebrations into a powerful call for action.
Read Also: Oyo Govt. confirms 32 pupils, students, teachers kidnapped
The concert took place on the eve of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which kicks off on Thursday with hosts Mexico facing South Africa at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
Read Also: Who Will Win? Mexico battle South Africa in 2026 World Cup opener
Global spotlight on Oyo abduction
Davido’s jacket featured green circular badges carrying the names of 39 abducted pupils and seven teachers kidnapped during an attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
Images and videos shared by the singer before and during his performance showed the names prominently displayed across the outfit, accompanied by the hashtag #BringThemHome.
In a widely circulated backstage video, Davido was seen wearing the jacket over a white T-shirt bearing the inscription “NIGERIA”, while the message “BRING THEM HOME” appeared boldly across the back.
According to campaign organisers, the names of victims believed to remain in captivity were written in white lettering, while the names of those who reportedly lost their lives during the ordeal appeared in red.
Tragic attack sparks nationwide concern
The victims were abducted on May 15, 2026, when armed attackers stormed Community High School in the Ahoro-Esinele community of Oriire Local Government Area near Ogbomoso.
The assailants kidnapped 39 pupils and seven teachers, including the school principal, in an attack that also claimed the lives of school officials and a motorcyclist.
The incident triggered widespread outrage across Nigeria and renewed calls for stronger security measures to protect schools and vulnerable communities from attacks.
Davido calls for urgent action
During his performance, Davido publicly read out several of the victims’ names and appealed for their immediate and safe release.
He also called on Nigerian authorities and security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue those still in captivity.
“Peace and love everywhere. May God be with the families of the abducted and the ones who have been killed,” the singer said.
By using the FIFA World Cup Countdown Concert—a global event watched by millions around the world—Davido ensured that the plight of the abducted pupils and teachers reached an international audience, turning a night of music and celebration into a platform for advocacy and hope.
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