20/10/2025
DAVIDO 5IVE TOUR NIGERIA: A BIG WIN FOR AKWA IBOM TOURISM
By Clement Warrie
Global Afrobeats superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has announced Akwa Ibom as a key destination on his "5IVE TOUR, NIGERIA,” with a performance slated for the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium. The tour, which will also stop in Adamawa, Enugu, Ibadan, and Lagos, marks his highly anticipated return to the Nigerian stage.
Announcing the tour on his social media handles to his fans, October 13, Davido wrote. “I’m blessed to perform all around the world, and everywhere I go- Nigeria goes with me. But this time… I’m bringing it HOME.”
And Uyo is HOME. Akwa Ibom is Nigeria’s foremost tourism destination.
The decision to begin his tour in Akwa Ibom is both strategic and a fitting choice. It shows how much dividends the state has begun to earn from its strategic investments in world-class infrastructures, like the iconic Ibom Icon Hotels and Golf Course, Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, the International Worship Centre, Four Points by Sheraton Hotels, the exceptional road connectivity, and world class ARISE Resort, rated as first of its kind in West Africa and set to open in December 2025.
According to the Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Anieti Udofia, the upcoming Davido concert in Uyo has cemented Akwa Ibom State's status as a burgeoning global tourism destination. He stated, “The ARISE blueprint on tourism is taking shape in just two years under Governor Umo Eno. The results are clear as day that the governor meant every word about making Akwa Ibom a premier tourism destination in Africa.”
Beyond holding the records as the cleanest state in Nigeria for 6 consecutive years, and barely a month ago, Akwa Ibom state was also named the second most livable state in Nigeria, per 2025 State Performance index (pSTI) reports, trailing only behind Oyo State and ranking ahead of the Federal Capital Territory.
This recognition is surprising. It is based on universal pillars of livability to which Akwa Ibom has made strong showing in areas such as strong infrastructure, urban amenities, and safety. For Akwa Ibom, excellence in these areas is the direct result of strategic, sustained investment and a unique socio-political approach, a legacy built by past leaders and actively sustained by Governor Umo Eno. His ARISE blueprint has prioritized aesthetic governance, supports tourism infrastructure and security ecosystem.
The state commitment is also visible in its aviation infrastructure. The state-owned Ibom Airline has become a national benchmark for efficiency and reliability, effectively shrinking the distance between Akwa Ibom and major economic hubs like Lagos and Abuja. Recently, Governor Umo Eno bolstered the airline's fleet by acquiring two CRJ900 Bombardier aircraft, bringing the total number of aircraft to nine.
Under the leadership of Governor Umo Eno, Akwa Ibom is on a mission to cement its status as premier tourism destination. The government’s intentionality is visible in the brick and mortar of transformative projects: the sprawling recreational haven of Arise Park, the elegant renovation work ongoing at the Ibom Icon Hotels and Golf Resort, and the development of the world-class Ibom International Hotel and International Conference center.
The coming of Davido and his legion of fans on Sunday, October 26th is a powerful stimulus package for the state’s burgeoning tourism ecosystem. The benefits will be felt across multiple sectors, including busy logistical services, booming hospitality market, the state unforgettable cuisines and the transport sector.
As a smart global brand, Davido understands that growth lies in expanding into viable new territories. This is what Davido’s tour in Akwa Ibom is all about; a strategic growth partnership.
In the last two years, Akwa Ibom has solidified its reputation as a premier hub for large-scale events and sports, with key achievements including, hosting the Nigerian Super Eagles for their AFCON and World Cup qualifying matches.
Ultimately, Davido’s tour in Akwa Ibom is a tribute to his loyal followers. It’s a deliberate move to connect with the fans of the South-South who have supported him from the beginning and to immerse himself in the southern hospitality that Akwa Ibom offers.
To quote him; “This one’s for the culture. This one’s personal. This one’s for US.” He said.
