“I Don’t Work for Money” — Davido Says He Has Billions Waiting from His Father’s Empire

Afrobeats superstar Davido has set social media ablaze once again—not with a chart-topping song, but with a candid revelation about his true motivation for making music. In a recent video circulating online, the Nigerian-American hitmaker declared that he doesn't work out of financial need, saying plainly: “I have billions of dollars waiting for me.”

The singer, born David Adeleke, attributed his massive financial backing to his father, Adedeji Adeleke, a well-known Nigerian billionaire businessman and philanthropist. Adedeji is the CEO of Pacific Holdings Limited and founder of Adeleke University, a sprawling academic institution in Osun State. His business empire stretches across energy, real estate, banking, and education—solidifying the Adeleke family as one of Nigeria’s wealthiest dynasties.

Yet Davido, known globally for hits like Fall, If, and Unavailable, insists that money isn’t his driving force. “I’m not here grinding because I need to—I just love music,” he said in the viral video. “If I stop now, I’ll still be good forever.”

This isn’t the first time Davido has referenced his family’s wealth, but the clarity and confidence in this declaration have reignited conversation around the singer’s authenticity and hustle. While many artists in Africa and beyond often highlight stories of rising from nothing, Davido’s narrative has always been different—born into wealth but still choosing the grind.

Despite his privileged background, Davido has carved out his own legacy, becoming one of Africa’s most streamed artists, headlining global stages, and earning multiple international awards. His passion-driven approach to music now echoes louder than ever, especially in contrast to the typical rags-to-riches stories that dominate pop culture.

Critics have occasionally tried to downplay his achievements by labeling him a "rich kid with connections," but even they can’t ignore the relentless work he’s put into dominating the music industry for over a decade. Davido’s statement serves not just as a boast, but as a reminder: he’s in the game because he wants to be—not because he has to be.

In a time when many young Nigerians are chasing money through music, tech, or politics, Davido’s reflection adds a different perspective—that passion can still be a powerful fuel, even when wealth is already secured.

Watch the video below