Adeayo Adebiyi of
Pulse Nigeria said
5ive showed that Davido "doubled down on his most defining traits" by focusing on familiar hit-making formulas and star collaborations, concluding that the album reinforced his place in Afrobeats "even if it came at the cost of a rounded album," and he rated it 7/10. Dennis Ade Peter, writing for
OkayAfrica, called the album "16 attempts at making buzzy slappers," and concluded that it proved veteran Afrobeats stars "don’t need new tricks to be compelling" when they understand their strengths. Walden Green of
Pitchfork described the album as "an intoxicating breath of ocean air," and stated that "by now, the crown is [Davido's] for the taking," rating it 7.3/10.
The Guardian Damien Morris awarded the album 3 out of 5 stars, writing that while
5ive had moments where Davido "sings well" over smooth, subtle production, the album felt overstretched, concluding that "a sharper, shorter collection would be better." Mankaprr Conteh of
Rolling Stone wrote that on the album, Davido reflected on love, faith, and longevity as he "counts his blessings," and concluded that the album was "a testament" to human resilience, rating it 3.5/5. Quincy of Ratings Game Music gave
5ive a B-, stating that the album proved Davido "rarely has dull moments" as he delivered energetic, versatile Afropop driven by strong features, and concluded that the album was "cohesive, consistent, and summer-ready."
Afrocritik writers Abioye Damilare Samson and Yinoluwa Olowofoyeku said that Davido "understand[s] the anatomy of a pop record" as he stacked polished, energetic hits on
5ive, but concluded that listeners were "waiting with bated breath for the album that will be able to tie it all together as a definitive and cohesive body of work," rating it 6.8/10. Wale Oloworekende of
The Native said that on
5ive, Davido remained an afropop force who "understands the mechanics of moments," but concluded that the album’s ideas often felt underdeveloped and finished "with a sigh of relief rather than the transcendental elation" of his best work, rating it 6.4/10. Ovwe Medeme of
Premium Times said that
5ive carried moments of faith, love, and reflection as Davido explored global sounds, but concluded that it felt like an album released "because it was time for another one, not because he was ready," rating it 6/10.
Accolades == Track listing ==