For over a decade, the relationship between Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Davido (David Adedeji Adeleke) and chef Chioma Rowland (Chef Chi) has unfolded in the public eye, resembling a high-stakes, real-life drama. Their journey is a testament to enduring commitment, marked by initial grand gestures, unexpected delays, profound tragedy, and an eventual, resilient reaffirmation of their bond. Ready to trace the timeline of Nigeria’s most discussed power couple?
The Viral Unveiling and the Promise of ‘#Assurance2020’
The couple’s romance moved swiftly from rumored dating in 2017 to a massive public declaration in 2018. Davido immortalized their union with the dedicated viral hit song “Assurance,” explicitly naming her in the pre-chorus: “I am looking for a sister, Chioma my lover,”. Chioma was featured as the lead vixen in the accompanying music video. Davido further confirmed their prominence by dedicating his 2018 Artist of the Year award to her.
The world watched when Davido proposed to Chioma in London in September 2019, presenting a tear-drop diamond ring engraved with “Assurance”. Chioma was visibly pregnant, and following the release of Davido’s song “1 Milli,” which referenced paying a hefty bride price, public expectations soared around the hashtag #Assurance2020. However, this “knot-tying has been a protracted affair” after the planned grand wedding was indefinitely postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Resilience Through Tragedy and Secret Vows
The relationship faced its darkest period in 2022 with the tragic loss of their first son, Ifeanyi. This devastating event caused Davido, usually “hyper-online,” to go into a hiatus for several months as the couple grieved privately. Despite persistent public scrutiny, including allegations of infidelity that have gone viral on two occasions, the couple has maintained a “strong and united front,” prioritizing their family’s well-being.
Following their hiatus, the duo chose privacy over pomp, reportedly tying the knot in a traditional ceremony in November 2022, followed by a legal marriage in March 2023. Davido later confirmed the secret marriage while promoting his fourth album, Timeless.
Double Joy and Lavish Reaffirmation
The resilient partnership continues to inspire Davido‘s music, with a line in his song “IN THE GARDEN” foreshadowing their next major milestone: “Ma bimo meji, mama ibeji,” (planning to give birth to a set of twins). In October 2023, they welcomed a set of twins, whose identities have been carefully kept out of the limelight, often referenced as “J2”.
The couple fulfilled the grand public promise of their commitment through a series of elaborate wedding events, collectively referred to as #Chivido2024. Following the traditional engagement festivities in Lagos, Nigeria, they held a second lavish ceremony—a white wedding celebration—in Miami in 2025. This ultra-lavish, black-tie event saw prominent figures like billionaire Aliko Dangote and former Senate President Bukola Saraki in attendance.
Davido and Chioma continue to celebrate their children lavishly, hosting an extravagant pink-themed second birthday party for the twins in Atlanta, USA in October 2025. This ongoing saga showcases their commitment to living out the promise of “Assurance,” flaunting their “faith in their bond” across continents.