Afrobeats superstar Davido has appealed to Nigerian A-list artistes to place greater priority on performing at home, expressing concerns over what he described as a noticeable shift in the international demand for Nigerian musicians, particularly in the United Kingdom and the United States.
Speaking during a session on The Uncut Podcast, Davido reflected on the changing fortunes of Nigerian artistes in overseas markets and suggested that the level of excitement surrounding Afrobeats shows abroad may no longer be what it was a few years ago.
The singer, who is one of Nigeria's biggest global music exports, said he hopes some of the industry's established stars will increasingly return their focus to Nigeria over the next decade.
According to Davido, Nigerian artistes are beginning to experience what he described as “see finish” in major international markets, particularly London and America—a Nigerian expression used to suggest that familiarity may have reduced the level of excitement, novelty or special attention once enjoyed.
“In the next 10 years I want the music OGs to come back to Nigeria. There is already ‘see finish’ in London, America, honestly,” Davido said.
The Afrobeats star compared the current situation with the level of demand Nigerian musicians reportedly enjoyed about three years ago.
He claimed that at the time, as many as 20 Nigerian artistes could travel to London, organise shows and successfully sell out venues.
However, Davido said the situation has changed significantly.
“Three years ago at least 20 artists can come to London and do show and get sold out, but now I can count maybe four or five and we all know them. We can all see the shift,” he added.
Davido's comments have sparked conversations about the sustainability of Afrobeats' global expansion and the increasing competition for audiences in international markets.
While Nigerian music continues to enjoy global recognition, his remarks raise questions about whether artistes should place greater emphasis on strengthening the domestic entertainment industry and building sustainable touring circuits across Nigeria and Africa.
The singer's call also highlights the need for improved event infrastructure, security, venues and entertainment investments capable of supporting regular large-scale concerts at home.
For Davido, the message appears clear: while global success remains important, Nigerian artistes should not neglect the audience and industry that helped build Afrobeats into the global force it is today.
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