Davido Goes Public Service! Appointed Chairman of OSTF

Nigeria’s global music icon, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has added a new feather to his cap. This time in the world of sports administration. The award-winning singer, songwriter, and philanthropist has been appointed as the Chairman of the Osun State Sports Trust Fund, a move that signals a fresh era for sports development in the state.

The announcement, made by the Osun State Government on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, (made know to us through The Guardian News among other sources) positions Davido at the center of an ambitious plan to revitalize and modernize sports infrastructure across the state. The appointment, according to insiders, was personally approved by Governor Ademola Adeleke, who is also Davido’s uncle, as part of a larger agenda to empower young people through sports and recreation.

According to the statement released by the state government, the newly established Osun Sports Trust Fund is designed to serve as a public-private financing mechanism that will attract resources for the construction, renovation, and maintenance of sports facilities. The fund will also support grassroots sports development and nurture emerging talents across the 30 local government areas of the state.

Deputy Governor Kola Adewusi, who doubles as the Commissioner for Sports, confirmed Davido’s acceptance of the role, describing him as “excited, humbled, and eager to make a difference.” Adewusi emphasized that the appointment was not just ceremonial but strategic, reflecting the administration’s commitment to repositioning sports as a major pillar of youth engagement and economic empowerment.

“The ongoing rehabilitation of the Osogbo Township Stadium is nearing completion and will meet modern, international standards,” Adewusi said.

“With Davido as chairman of the Sports Trust Fund, we are confident that the state will witness an unprecedented inflow of investments and sponsorships that will transform the sports landscape.”

Davido’s selection has been met with widespread excitement among fans, sports enthusiasts, and policy watchers. Beyond his global fame, the singer has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to youth empowerment, philanthropy, and community development – qualities that align with the state’s objectives.

Over the years, Davido has launched several charitable initiatives under his David Adeleke Foundation, donated millions to orphanages across Nigeria, and funded scholarships for underprivileged students. His massive influence, with more than 50 million followers across social media platforms, positions him as a bridge between government and the younger generation.

Analysts believe his appointment will help the state attract private sector partnerships, corporate sponsorships, and international collaborations that can fund sporting programs, academies, and facilities.

“Appointing Davido is both a symbolic and strategic decision,” said sports analyst Kunle Aina.
“He has the visibility, influence, and credibility to inspire youth participation and bring global attention to Osun State’s sporting potential.”

Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration has made no secret of its desire to transform Osun into a hub of sporting excellence.

Earlier this year, the government commenced the rehabilitation of the Osogbo Township Stadium, with the goal of upgrading it to meet Olympic standards. Plans are also underway to establish the Osun State Sports Commission, which will coordinate policy implementation and regulate all sports-related activities within the state.

The Sports Trust Fund (chaired by Davido) will serve as the financial backbone of this vision. Its mandate includes:

1. Mobilising funds from individuals, corporate bodies, and development agencies.

2. Sponsoring state athletes to national and international tournaments.

3. Encouraging school-based sports programs to identify and groom young talents.

4. Reviving moribund sports facilities in towns like Ilesa, Ife, Ede, and Ikirun.

5. Supporting female participation and inclusivity in competitive sports.

While Davido has yet to release an official statement through his verified platforms, close sources suggest that he has already begun consulting with local and international sports development experts.

One of his aides revealed that the artist is “personally passionate about sports, especially football,” and intends to blend his entertainment network with this new public responsibility.

Fans of the singer recall that Davido has often expressed love for the game, having once sponsored youth tournaments and even hinted at investing in a football academy. His appointment as Sports Trust Fund Chairman gives him an official avenue to actualize these dreams on a much larger scale.

READ ALSO: 5 Ways Davido’s Appointment Could Change Osun Sports

The announcement has dominated conversations on social media, with hashtags such as #DavidoForSports and #OsunSportsRebirth trending on X (formerly Twitter). Many Nigerians commended the Osun State Government for thinking outside the box by involving celebrities in governance beyond entertainment portfolios.

“I think it’s a brilliant move,” said Aisha Abdulsalam, a sports blogger based in Lagos. “Davido’s global connections could help Osun attract sports investors from Europe and America. Imagine an Osun Sports Festival sponsored by global brands – that’s possible with Davido on board.”

However, a few critics have urged caution, emphasizing that the role requires more than star power. “Davido must ensure that the Fund doesn’t become another publicity stunt. We need clear plans, timelines, and results,” said sports journalist Olamide Bamidele.

Davido’s appointment also reignites conversations about the importance of sports in Nigeria’s socioeconomic development. Across the country, states are beginning to see sports not merely as recreation but as a driver of job creation, tourism, and national pride.

Osun State, in particular, has a history of producing promising athletes in football, boxing, and track events. Yet, the lack of funding and infrastructure has often hindered these talents from reaching their potential. With a structured financing model and the involvement of high-profile figures like Davido, the state hopes to reverse this trend.

Sports economists note that successful states like Lagos, Delta, and Edo have already demonstrated how strategic investment in sports can yield both social and financial dividends. Osun is now positioning itself to join that league.

Observers note that Davido’s involvement could encourage more youths to engage in governance, either through direct service or through community-driven initiatives.

For Davido, it is yet another opportunity to expand his impact beyond music to contribute to nation-building and to empower the very youths who have danced to his songs for over a decade. If he succeeds, this initiative could become a model for other states seeking innovative ways to finance and manage sports development.

Osun may soon witness not only a revival of its stadiums and sports culture but also the rise of a new kind of leader: one who inspires through beats, passion, and results.