Peter Sunday David: Nigeria’s Jazz Drumming Powerhouse on the Global Stage

By Michael Adeshina

Peter Sunday David (born 19 January 1986) stands today as one of the most accomplished and respected jazz drummers to emerge from Nigeria, with a growing influence that now stretches across the United Kingdom and beyond. A versatile musician, sound engineer, bandleader, and educator, his career reflects years of disciplined training, global exposure, and consistent excellence across genres.

Born into a deeply spiritual family as the third child and first male of five siblings, Peter was raised by the late Most Senior Evangelist Sunday Oghenekparobvo David Adu and the late Mother in Celestial Margret Ufoma David. From an early age, structure, faith, and music played defining roles in shaping his character. These foundations would later translate into a career marked by professionalism, humility, and mastery of craft.

Peter began his formal education at Ayanleye Memorial Primary School in Ifako-Ijaye, Lagos, where he completed his primary studies in 1998. He proceeded to Soncohs Comprehensive High School, earning his Secondary School Certificate and West African Senior School Certificate in 2003. Though his early academic path led him to study Banking and Finance at The Polytechnic, Ilaro where he graduated with an Ordinary National Diploma in 2007—music remained a constant calling.

In 2010, that calling took a decisive turn when Peter gained admission into the prestigious Musical Society of Nigeria (MUSON)Muson School of Music, Onikan, on a full scholarship sponsored by MTN Communications. There, he studied music with a focus on jazz drums and percussion, graduating in 2012 as the Best Jazz Drummer, a recognition that confirmed his exceptional talent and technical depth. His pursuit of excellence continued at the University of Lagos, Faculty of Arts, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Music and was honoured as the Best Instrumentalist of the Year in 2019.

Peter’s professional journey began with discipline outside the arts, having worked briefly as a cashier at Intercontinental Bank of Nigeria. However, his passion for music soon took centre stage. In 2012, he joined Alexandra Communication Studio in Ikeja as a sound engineer and musician, where he honed his expertise in studio management, live sound, and theatre production. His technical proficiency and musical sensitivity quickly distinguished him in the industry.

This dedication earned him an audition with the Muson Symphony Orchestra under the direction of renowned German maestro cellist and conductor, Thomas Kanitz. His selection marked the beginning of his classical performance journey, as he performed across Nigeria and collaborated with seasoned orchestral musicians, further expanding his musical range.

Over the years, Peter Sunday David has worked with some of the biggest names in Nigerian music. He served as bandleader and drummer for acclaimed singer Waje for over five years, performing extensively within and outside Nigeria, including a notable African Day performance in South Africa in May,2016. His collaboration with Afrobeat star Augustine Miles Kelechi “TEKNO” further elevated his international profile, as he functioned as drummer, bandleader, and sound engineer on tours that spanned over 20 countries and major global stages.

His versatility has also seen him work closely with gospel artist and songwriter Kent Edunjobi, touring multiple locations and contributing to soundtracks for KAP TV. In November 2025, Peter performed with Olamide Badoo at the iconic OVO Arena in London, a milestone that underscored his relevance in the UK live music circuit.

Beyond live performances, Peter has left a lasting imprint through recordings and orchestral works. He recorded drums on the award-winning “Ebenizeri” track from the Apex Choir album of the Celestial Church of Christ International Headquarters. He has featured in numerous albums across jazz, gospel, pop, and orchestral music, and has performed with respected music directors and institutions, including Dr. Kunle Pinmiloye (Kay’s Sticks) and the Daystar Christian Centre orchestra in Lagos.

In addition to performing, Peter is passionate about knowledge transfer. He has facilitated masterclasses in music and sound engineering, mentoring emerging talents and advocating for professionalism and technical excellence in live sound production. His philosophy emphasizes experience, musical sensitivity, and balance over volume and spectacle.

Married to Mrs. Hannah Oluwaseun David and blessed with two daughters, Peter balances family life with a demanding international career. His journey from Ifako-Ijaye to global concert halls reflects resilience, purpose, and a lifelong commitment to music.

Today, Peter Sunday David is widely regarded as one of the most renowned jazz drummers from Nigeria, with a growing legacy in the UK music scene. Whether behind the drum kit, leading bands on international tours, or shaping sound for world-class performances, he remains a powerful force whose influence continues to inspire musicians across generations.