Grammy-nominated Nigerian singer David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has been confirmed as one of the headline performers for the opening concert of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 in Rabat, Morocco.
Gatekeepers News reports that the concert will hold on Saturday, a day before the football tournament officially kicks off, ushering in the month-long continental competition.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced that Davido will lead a star-studded international lineup assembled to set the tone for AFCON 2025.
The organisers revealed that global hip-hop star French Montana will also perform at the concert, alongside Moroccan singer Douaa Lahyaoui, French-Moroccan hitmaker Lartiste, and fast-rising act Says’z.
“The Confederation of African Football has officially announced the artists set to headline the opening concert of the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 in Rabat,” the statement read.
“Global hip-hop star French Montana and Nigerian Afrobeats icon Davido will lead an exciting international line-up, joined by Moroccan sensation Douaa Lahyaoui, French-Moroccan hitmaker Lartiste, and rising artist Says’z. The diverse selection reflects AFCON’s celebration of African culture, music, and global influence.”
CAF said the concert is designed to blend football and music, creating a festive atmosphere ahead of the tournament.
“The opening concert is scheduled for Saturday, just a day before the tournament kicks off, setting the tone for what is expected to be an unforgettable AFCON in Morocco,” the statement added.
Davido, widely regarded as one of Africa’s most influential music exports, is known for his high-energy performances on major global stages. His appearance at the AFCON opening concert further highlights the growing synergy between African football and entertainment.
French Montana, a Moroccan-American rapper with multiple international hits, is also expected to attract a global audience, boosting AFCON’s international appeal.
AFCON 2025 will feature Africa’s top national teams competing for continental honours, with organisers promising not only top-class football but also a rich cultural showcase reflecting Africa’s creativity, sound and identity.
CAF noted that fans in Rabat and across the continent are already counting down to a night where music and football converge as the tournament prepares to kick off in Morocco.
Davido’s selection for the AFCON 2025 opening concert adds to his record of landmark global performances. In 2022, he became the first Nigerian artiste to perform at a FIFA World Cup ceremony, delivering the official anthem Hayya Hayya alongside Aisha and Trinidad Cardona at the closing ceremony in Qatar.
