Davido Unveils Clifford University Hostel For His Late Mother, Veronica Adeleke [Video]

Afrobeats star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, on Sunday inaugurated a new female hostel named after his late mother, Dr. Veronica Adeleke, at Clifford University in Abia State.

The unveiling took place during the university’s 6th Convocation Ceremony, where Davido also delivered the commencement speech to graduating students.

The new building, known as the “Veronica Adeleke Female Hostel”, was commissioned by Davido himself, serving as a tribute to his mother’s lifelong commitment to education and philanthropy.

In his speech, Davido spoke passionately about finding purpose, showing resilience, and serving humanity, urging the graduating students to define success by their impact on others, not by wealth or fame.

He said, “True greatness is not about fame or numbers, but about the lives you touch and the change you inspire.”

After the event, the singer took to his X (formerly Twitter) page to reflect on the emotional moment.

He shared how the experience reminded him of his mother’s passion for education and community building, saying, “From taking acting seriously… to becoming a subject of study. What started as passion and discipline has now become a movement of its own. I feel honored and motivated to keep giving my best.”

Davido also spoke about how his mother’s values of kindness and knowledge have guided his music and charitable work.

“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,” he said.

He described the hostel as a continuation of his mother’s legacy of compassion and education, saying, “My mother, Dr. Veronica Adeleke, was a teacher and giver who believed education and compassion could change lives. This building is a continuation of her purpose turning love into legacy.”

The event was also attended by a businessman and Davido’s close associate, Cubana Chief Priest, who surprised everyone by pledging to pay the school fees of 50 students.

His announcement was met with loud cheers from the crowd, emphasizing the positive influence celebrities can have when they give back to society.

Clifford University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Chimezie Omeonu, commended Davido for his humility and commitment to promoting education, describing the dedication as “a noble act that inspires hope and strengthens the culture of giving back.”

Professor Omeonu also paid tribute to the late Dr. Veronica Adeleke for her contributions to education, saying the hostel will serve as a reminder of her belief in empowering young women through knowledge and discipline.

“Her name will continue to inspire generations of students who will reside here and benefit from this gesture,” he stated.

Students and guests at the ceremony described Davido’s gesture as touching and inspirational. Many shared photos and videos online, applauding the artist for using his fame to honor his mother and create lasting social impact.

Watch the video below:

KanyiDaily recalls that Davido recently revealed that he was close to walking away from the music industry before the release of his hit song “With You,” featuring another singer, Omah Lay.