[5] It gained popularity in Nigeria after Davido announced the Skelewu dance competition, and was endorsed by African footballers Emmanuel Adebayor[6] and Samuel Eto'o.

Directed by Jassy Generation, the video's release was accompanied by an announcement of the Skelewu dance competition.

[8][9] According to Pulse Nigeria, the number of dance videos uploaded to YouTube by fans aggregated to over 100,000 views.

[21] The website Afrobeat360.com praised the Moe Musa-directed video and commended its setting, location, narrative and choreography.

[22] On 3 November 2013, Davido performed "Skelewu" at the "Guinness Colourful World of More" concert alongside numerous artists, including P-Square, D'banj, Wizkid, Ice Prince, Burna Boy, Olamide, Phyno, Chidinma, Waje and Tiwa Savage.

[27] On 17 December 2013, Davido performed "Skelewu" at the 2013 edition of Carniriv, which was held in Port Harcourt at the Liberation Stadium.