Nigerian singer, David Adedeji Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, Monday paid a courtesy call on Sierra Leone president, Dr. Julius Maada Bio at State House in Freetown, ahead of his highly anticipated performance at the country’s Sugar Land Beach.
The visit however generated hostile reactions by a segment of the Sierra Leonean populace over the ‘assurance’ croooner’s form of dressing to the presidential office. While Bio was dressed in suit and tie, Davido was clad in knee-length shorts and armless top.
“Dis guy dae put on short trousers for meet with we fountain of honour 🤔,” one commentator said, while another posted a picture of Davido meeting President Bola Tinubu fully dressed, to emphasise perceived disrespect for the Sierra Leonean president.
Introducing Davido and his delegation to Bio, the Director General of the Sierra Leone Ports and Harbours Authority (SLPHA), Mr. Yankuba Askia Bio said the award-winning artiste is in Sierra Leone to headline a major entertainment show organised by Sierra Leoneans, scheduled to take place at Sugar Land Beach in the western part of Freetown.
Mr. Bio described Davido as a brother and a member of the wider family, noting that upon his arrival in the country, the artiste had personally expressed his desire to pay a courtesy call on the President. He assured that all arrangements had been put in place ahead of the event to guarantee a high-quality performance supported by robust security measures.
Davido thanked the President for the warm reception accorded him. He stated that since his arrival in Sierra Leone, his experience has been exceptional, particularly commending the hospitality and security arrangements.
Describing Sierra Leone as his second home, the singer assured of his continued visits to the country, including future performances after the completion of the National Stadium.
“We will definitely come back to Sierra Leone for more performances and even to relax and spend time with my brothers, sisters, and friends,” he said.
The singer disclosed that his performance was originally scheduled for Sunday, 21 December 2025, but was postponed to Monday, 22 December 2025, due to the grand opening ceremony of the African Nations Cup. He assured fans that the event would be well-coordinated, promising an outstanding performance from himself and his crew.
Welcoming Davido and his team on behalf of the Government and people of Sierra Leone, President Bio stated that the artiste is no stranger to the country, noting that many Sierra Leoneans are eagerly anticipating his live performance. The President thanked the organisers for staging what he described as a fitting end-of-year musical celebration for citizens, marking the close of 2025.
President Bio expressed optimism for a successful event and wished Davido, his team, and the organisers a memorable and safe end-of-year entertainment programme.
Change of style
Sierra Leonean Fashion designer Hollyandroo however promised that Davido will showcase “real Sierra Leone culture” through what he will wear ahead of the concert.
Hollyandroo, the Sierra Leonean-Liberian fashion designer and personal stylist to Davido, hinted at a special cultural look for the singer.
Speaking ahead of the appearance, he said, “Today, Davido is going to represent real Sierra Leone culture, you are going to see the dress that he will be putting on.”
The statement has raised excitement among fans, with many eager to see how Sierra Leone’s culture will be reflected on a global star.
Davido is scheduled to perform before midnight on December 22, 2025, at the Gbamgbaode Festival, with ticket sales for both general admission and VIP already surging. Tickets are available at selected commercial bank outlets and designated locations across Freetown, while an exclusive official after-party will take place at the Fabulous Resort following the show.
