Renowned Afrobeat artist David Adeleke, better known as Davido, recently took the stage at the Ethiopia New Year celebration as the nation welcomed the year 2017.
A video that gained traction on social media on Wednesday
showcased thousands of Ethiopians gathering in Addis Ababa, the capital, to
partake in their distinctive New Year festivities.
Many fans were surprised to learn that Ethiopia operates on
a calendar that is seven years behind the global standard, as the country
adheres to its own calendar system, known as the Ethiopian or Ge’ez calendar.
This calendar, which has roots in the ancient Egyptian
system, features unique characteristics that set it apart from the widely used
Gregorian calendar.
The Ethiopian New Year is observed on either September 11th
or 12th, depending on the year, reflecting a difference of seven to eight years
due to varying calculations regarding the date of Jesus' birth.
The celebrations typically include church services,
traditional meals, and various festive activities.
Social media reactions to the viral videos of Davido's performance included playful speculation that he had somehow traveled back in time to entertain the crowd.
An Instagram user, @coded_prince_miles, reacting to the
post, said, “Davido is the first Nigerian artist to travel back in time.”
Still reacting, @d_youngnelly wrote, “Na to relocate go
Ethiopia, at least before 2024, I go don achieve some kind things. This is a
smart move.”
Another user, @ksolo_hitz wrote, “Dem just enter new year
how come dey participate for Olympic 2024.”
@mcee_a1 also said, “so if dem travel, what year do they
write on their passports and documents? Just asking 😂.”
@uncle_azeez also wrote, “This whole time I have been in the
future nisha, Ethiopia, I dey come oo, maybe I go find how to avoid this
pregnancy.”
@viks_vico wrote, “😂😂😂…we
shouldn’t tell our experience in 2017 and let them use their eyes to witness
it.”