Davido reveals family tradition of overseas education spans generations
Davido revealed in a recent interview that his family has maintained a tradition of sending children abroad for education for generations, tracing it back to his senator grandfather who sent his children to the United States. He said his father attended university in Kentucky, while his mother, from Edo State, met his Yoruba father (with Igbo ancestry) in London and later pursued a master's degree in the US. He noted that overseas education is common among many affluent African families and has been sustained across generations. This revelation highlights a long-standing preference among Nigeria's elite for international schooling, which can shape families' expectations about the value of foreign degrees. For Davido, the exposure between Nigeria and the United States broadened his worldview and contributed to his global music success. Understanding this trend helps parents weigh the perceived advantages of overseas study - such as global networks and perceived quality - against the costs and the growing quality of local universities. He also shared that his parents first met in London, underscoring the family's trans-Atlantic ties. For families deciding between sending children abroad or investing in Nigerian institutions, consider factors like tuition, living expenses, cultural exposure, and career goals. Research shows international degrees can open global opportunities, but many Nigerian universities are improving their offerings. Ask yourself: would you prioritize overseas education for your children given the perceived advantages, or would you invest in strengthening local institutions?