John Legend enthralled the crowd with heartfelt performances of Ordinary People, Green Light, All of Me, and Refuge, during which he was joined on stage by Simi.
“It’s been too long, I’ve missed you all. We belong together, Lagos,” he expressed, wearing outfits from Eleven Sixteen and Orange Culture, while his backing vocalists donned designs from Elexiay and Wanni Fuga.
Move Afrika, now extending its reach from East to West Africa, is establishing a pan-continental music touring circuit aimed at promoting economic investment, infrastructure growth, and job creation within local communities.
“Nigeria’s musical heritage and global influence make it a key destination for Move Afrika. We’re proud to be here and look forward to returning,” stated Hugh Evans, CEO of Global Citizen.
In addition to music, Move Afrika acts as a catalyst for social change. In Lagos, Global Citizen organized the Stride for HER Rights Walkathon, mobilizing thousands—including WARIF, WBFA, and NSSF—to advocate for enhanced maternal and child healthcare.
Simultaneously, in Kigali, the Together for a Healthier Community initiative offered free reproductive healthcare services.
This year, Move Afrika: Lagos was executed with 90% local crew and 95% locally sourced equipment, highlighting Nigeria’s ability to produce world-class events.
Governor Sanwo-Olu praises Global Citizen’s influence
Representing Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Secretary to the State Government Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin commended the initiative’s positive effects on music, culture, and advocacy.
“This celebration is a powerful reminder of the role music and collective action play in shaping a better future for Nigeria,” she stated. “Move Afrika is more than a concert—it’s a movement addressing global challenges such as poverty and climate change. Whether in Lagos or Johannesburg, it requires collective action.
“We are privileged to host a man whose music transcends borders and whose commitment to social justice is unwavering. As we enjoy tonight’s entertainment, let us not forget our responsibility as global citizens. We must ensure access to quality education, clean water, gender equality, and inclusivity for all. I commend Global Citizen for choosing Lagos as a destination—let tonight be a celebration of music, hope, and a reminder that we can move Lagos forward.”
Move Afrika's expansion is reshaping Africa's music industry while simultaneously fostering economic empowerment and improving healthcare infrastructure, city by city.