The Nigerian government has announced that Afrobeats superstar Davido will receive the Officer of The National Order Of The Niger (OON) award in 2023.
The award is one of the highest honours in Nigeria and recognizes outstanding achievements and contributions to the nation.
Davido, whose real name is David Adedeji Adeleke, is an American-born Nigerian singer, songwriter and record producer who rose to fame with his hit single “Dami Duro” in 2012. He has since released four studio albums, including Timeless which came out in March 2023. He is also a cultural ambassador for Nigeria and a prominent voice of human rights in Africa.
Davido is among 339 Nigerians who will be honoured with various national awards in 2023. The list was released by the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs on Sunday.
Other notable recipients include acclaimed filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, who will also get the OON award; football star Victor Osimhen, who will get an MFR (Member of The Order of Federal Republic) award for his role in Napoli’s Serie A title win; and socialite and businessman Terry Waya, who will get an OFR (Order of the Federal Republic) award.
The ministry has asked all the recipients to submit their citation or resume by May 31 and to attend the award ceremony on June 1, 2023.
