Nigerian Afrobeats star Davido used his performance at the FIFA World Cup 2026 Countdown Concert in Los Angeles to draw attention to the abduction of 39 schoolchildren and seven teachers from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The singer appeared on stage at the Crypto.com Arena wearing a customised black leather jacket carrying the message “BRING THEM HOME”. The jacket was covered with green circular badges bearing the names of the abducted pupils and teachers, turning his performance into a call for their safe return.
Images and videos shared by Davido showed the names displayed across the jacket before and during his headline performance at the concert. The campaign message was also accompanied by the hashtag #BringThemHome.
The pupils and teachers were abducted on May 15, 2026, when armed attackers stormed Community High School in the Ahoro-Esinele community of Oriire Local Government Area. The attackers kidnapped 39 pupils and seven teachers, including the school principal.
The attack also claimed the lives of school officials and a motorcyclist. The incident sparked concern across the country and renewed calls for stronger measures to protect schools and communities from attacks.
Davido’s outfit carried additional symbolism. According to campaign organisers, the names of victims believed to remain in captivity were written in white, while the names of those who lost their lives were displayed in red.
By using one of the biggest stages linked to the build-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the singer brought international attention to a case that has continued to generate concern in Nigeria. His appearance has since attracted discussion on social media, with many supporters praising the effort to keep public attention on the abducted pupils and teachers.
The #BringThemHome campaign continues to call for intensified efforts to secure the release of those still being held and reunite them with their families.
Ademide Adebayo
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