On Sunday, November 9, 2025, Afrobeats superstar Davido transformed Ibadan into the ultimate music destination.
More than 25,000 fans packed Liberty Stadium to witness his 5ive Alive Tour, with some reports estimating that over 30,000 music lovers tried to gain entry. The concert wasn’t just a performance—it was a cultural phenomenon that captured the heart of southwestern Nigeria.
Unmatched Energy and Fan Frenzy
From the opening beat, the stadium was electric. Davido tore through hits including “Unavailable,” “Fall,” “FIA,” and “Risky,” with fans singing every line in unison. Social media exploded with clips and reactions, and one viral fan post summed it up perfectly: “IB CITY WOW!!!”—a tribute reposted by Davido himself.
VIP Presence Highlights the Night
The concert drew high-profile figures, including Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, Davido’s uncle. Their presence highlighted the event’s cultural significance, turning it into both an entertainment spectacle and a state-recognised landmark occasion.
Ibadan Takes Center Stage in Nigerian Music
Historically, cities like Lagos and Abuja dominated the live concert scene, but Ibadan is now proving it can hold its own. Following the massive success of Uyo’s 30,000-capacity Godswill Akpabio International Stadium show earlier in the year, this performance marks Davido’s expanding influence and Afrobeats’ growing reach across Nigeria.
Impact Beyond the Stage
The concert underscores several trends shaping the Nigerian music industry:
Regional power shift: Secondary cities like Ibadan are emerging as major concert hubs.
Mature fan culture: Fans now expect high-quality production, full engagement, and large-scale visual experiences.
Economic boost: Local hotels, transport services, and vendors benefit from tens of thousands of visitors converging on the city.
Cultural dominance: Live shows continue to cement artists’ brand presence and deepen fan loyalty across regions.
A Night to Remember
By the time Davido closed with “Feel”, it was clear that this was more than a show—it was a historic event in Nigerian live entertainment. The night proved the power of Afrobeats, the loyalty of fans, and Davido’s unique ability to connect with audiences beyond Lagos.
One fan perfectly captured the mood: “Davido in Ibadan? That’s not a concert—it’s history in motion.”
