6 ways Davido has honoured his late mother’s memory over the years

For over two decades, Afrobeats superstar David Adeleke, famously known as Davido, has carried the memory of his late mother, Dr. Veronica Imade Adeleke, as both a personal compass and creative inspiration.

Her death in March 2003 left a permanent mark on his life, shaping his humanitarian vision and driving his success. From naming his children after her to establishing lasting institutions in her honor, Davido has ensured her spirit continues to live through everything he does; in family, philanthropy, music, and legacy.

Dr. Veronica Imade Adeleke was more than Davido’s mother, she was his closest companion and biggest supporter. A lecturer, businesswoman, and philanthropist, she was known for her compassion and drive to uplift others. Davido, who lost her at the age of 10, has often described himself as a “mummy’s boy,” and her passing remains the most defining moment of his life.

In several interviews, Davido has spoken about how her absence shaped his purpose, saying he would have “bought her houses and diamonds” if she were still alive. Instead, he’s chosen to immortalize her through acts that reflect her love for education, music, and charity.

Here are all the ways Davido has kept the memory of his late mother alive through the years.

Naming his daughters after her

One of the most heartfelt ways Davido has kept his mother’s memory alive is by naming his first two daughters after her. His first daughter, Aurora Imade Adeleke, carries his mother’s middle name, while his second, Hailey Veronica Adeleke, bears her first name.

In an emotional 2020 interview, Davido revealed that these names were deliberate choices, not just tributes but symbols of continuity. Through his daughters, Dr. Veronica Adeleke’s identity lives on, creating a living legacy that connects generations.

Establishing the Veronica Adeleke education scholarship program

In keeping up with his mother’s deep love for education, Davido has continually invested in educational initiatives that mirror her life’s mission. Most recently, the singer made headlines for commissioning the Veronica Imade Adeleke Female Hostel at Clifford University, Abia State, during the school’s 6th Convocation Ceremony in October 2025.

The building, named after his late mother, serves as a home for young women pursuing their education, a direct reflection of Dr. Veronica’s own role as a lecturer and advocate for learning. Speaking at the event, Davido described the project as “a continuation of her purpose,” emphasizing that her belief in compassion and knowledge still guides his every move.

Beyond the hostel, Davido also funds scholarships and educational support through his philanthropic arm, the David Adeleke Foundation, reinforcing his mother’s lifelong commitment to helping others achieve their dreams.

Using her image and initials in his branding and jewelry

Davido’s connection to his late mother is visible not just in his actions but in his personal style and branding. He frequently incorporates her image and initials into his jewelry, accessories, and even his fashion statements.

Fans have spotted pendants bearing her portrait, and some of his most iconic chains feature her initials, a constant reminder that his mother remains at the center of his life, both privately and publicly. These personal tokens serve as wearable memories, symbolizing her presence in his daily journey as an artist and a man.

Turning pain into purpose through philanthropy

Over the years, Davido has made philanthropy a major part of his public identity, much like his mother did during her lifetime. In 2021, to celebrate his 29th birthday, he raised ₦200 million from friends and fans and added ₦50 million of his own money before donating the entire ₦250 million to orphanages across Nigeria. He followed it up with another ₦237 million donation in 2023, continuing his mother’s legacy of giving.

Though his mother passed away before she could witness his global success, Davido has ensured her values of compassion and community empowerment remain active through him.

Releasing emotional posts and tributes every March

Every year, especially in March, the month of her passing, Davido takes time to publicly honor his mother. Whether through heartfelt Instagram posts, throwback photos, or emotional captions, he reminds the world of the woman who shaped his heart and purpose.

In July 2024, he posted a rare photo of his mother in her academic gown with the caption, “My mom was a baddie,” a simple but powerful reminder of the love and pride that still drives him.

Keeping her spirit alive through music

Davido has also expressed his devotion through music, using his art as a space to connect with the memory of his late mother. Lyrics like “Mama Don’t Worry” and “Omo Mummy” serve as musical letters, heartfelt acknowledgments of the sacrifices she made and the success he’s achieved in her honor. Through his music, Davido turns grief into gratitude, transforming pain into rhythm and remembrance.

In conclusion, two decades after her passing, Dr. Veronica Adeleke’s influence remains deeply woven into Davido’s life. From naming his daughters after her, to building institutions in her name, to sharing her story with the world, every gesture is a continuation of her love and vision.

Davido’s tributes are not mere celebrity gestures, they are the foundation of his identity. Each song, act of giving, and structure he builds serves as proof that the love of a mother never truly fades. It only evolves, from memory, to music, to legacy.

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