Nigerian hip-hop sensation, David Adedeji Adeleke, popularly known as ‘Davido’ has won the “Best International Act” award at the 18th annual BET Awards organised at the Microsoft Theater, Los Angeles in the United States.
He beat other nominees including Tiwa Savage (Nigeria), Booba (France), Cassper Nyovest (South Africa), Dadju (France), Distruction Boyz (South Africa), Fally Ipupa (DR Congo), J Hus (UK), Niska (France), Stefflon Don (UK) and Stormzy(UK) to clinch the award.
In his acceptance speech at the event, Davido calls for more collaborations between American artistes and their African counterparts. He also expressed his condolences to D’banj, the ‘Koko Master’ over the loss of his son.
“And as I go on, I wanna talk about Africa. My continent has been so blessed to influence many cultures.
“Come to Africa, eat the food, wear the clothes. Get ready for me, let’s collaborate. My album drops this year. J. Cole. Yo Quay, I’m waiting on that verse Quay,” Davido said to the enthuhsiasm of fans and viewers across the globe.
The award ceremony, which was hosted by Academy and Grammy-award winner, Jamie Foxx, was aimed at recognizing exceptional artists, entertainers, cultural provocateurs and inspiring humanitarians. It spreads across over 19 categories.
A statement from BET Networks said “this year’s broadcast celebrates 18 years of impactful performances from the hottest names in the business and appearances from entertainment’s most talked-about players.
“More than ever, the BET Awards continues to tackle and support culturally and socially relevant narratives and conversations, setting the standard for one of the most intently unconventional, news-provoking and talked-about broadcasts.”
At the celebrities-packed event, Nicki Minaj took over the BET stage with a fierce version of her current single, "Chun Li." She later re-appeared alongside 2 Chainz and Big Sean as featured artists on YG’s performance of "Big Bank.”
Similarly, Meek Mill delivered a powerful performance of his first new song since being released from prison titled “Stay Woke,” which addresses the abhorrent inequalities in the criminal justice system. It also included vivid imagery of police violence and mass incarceration.
Other presenters at the event included Michael B. Jordan, Kevin Hart, T.I., L.L. Cool J, Bobby Brown, Tyra Banks, Tyler Perry and Questlove.
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