Nigerian music legend, Innocent Ujah Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has penned a deeply emotional open letter to celebrate his 25th anniversary in the music industry, expressing heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been part of his journey.
In the letter titled “Open Letter of Gratitude 2Baba @ 25 Years in the Industry,” the multiple award-winning singer reflected on his humble beginnings, the people who believed in him, and the experiences that shaped his career.
2Baba described his 25-year journey as one filled with gratitude, memories, lessons, and love, acknowledging that his story would not be complete without those who stood by him through triumphs and trials.
“As I stand on the threshold of 25 years in this incredible journey called music, my heart is full of gratitude, memories, lessons, and love.
This celebration is not mine alone; it belongs to everyone who played a role in shaping the story of Innocent Idibia, 2Baba,” he wrote.
The music icon, who rose to fame in the late 1990s as a member of the popular group Plantashun Boiz, said his success was built on faith, hard work, and the support of mentors and colleagues who helped him find his voice when the odds were stacked against him.
2Baba paid special tribute to several industry figures who played key roles in his early career, including Nelson Brown, Kenny Ogungbe (Baba Keke), Dayo Adeneye (D1), Eddie Lawani, and DJ Jimmy Jatt.
He credited Nelson Brown for discovering Plantashun Boiz, the trio that launched his music career alongside Faze and Blackface.
“You were the first to see light in the dream of three young men when no one else believed. You gave us a voice when we barely had a microphone, a space when all we had was a dream,” 2Baba wrote.
The singer also praised Baba Keke and D1 for opening doors that changed the course of his life and helped shape the Nigerian music industry.
“You opened doors that led us from dreams to destiny. We made history together; we won together. You stood as mentors and big brothers, and your names will forever be etched in my story,” he added.
He further thanked entertainment promoter Eddie Lawani for providing one of the earliest platforms for Plantashun Boiz to perform when opportunities were limited.
“You believed in our potential and never stopped supporting us. You gave us a chance when no one else did,” he said.
2Baba also extended warm appreciation to veteran DJ Jimmy Jatt, describing him as a “brother and a pillar” who has stood by him since his earliest performances.
The African Queen crooner noted that his 25-year milestone is not just a personal achievement but a celebration of Nigerian music and everyone who has contributed to its global success.
“This celebration is not just about me. It’s about every fan, every DJ, every producer, every promoter, and every artist who has been part of this journey. Without the people who believed, corrected, and supported me, my story would have been incomplete,” he said.
From his early days in Makurdi to global stages, 2Baba’s journey reflects the rise of Nigerian music from local stages to international acclaim.
After leaving Plantashun Boiz in the early 2000s, 2Baba launched a successful solo career that changed the sound of contemporary African music. His debut solo album, Face 2 Face, released in 2004, included the global hit African Queen, which became one of the defining songs of the Afrobeats movement.
Over the years, 2Baba has released several chart-topping songs such as For Instance, If Love Is a Crime, True Love, and Only Me, earning multiple awards both in Nigeria and abroad.
Today, 2Baba is celebrated not only for his music but also for his contributions to peace, youth empowerment, and social change through the 2Baba Foundation. He has used his influence to speak on issues such as governance, unity, and responsible citizenship.
His legacy continues to inspire younger artists, many of whom regard him as a pioneer who paved the way for the modern Afrobeats era that dominates global charts today.
As he reflects on 25 years of music, 2Baba says his heart remains filled with gratitude and hope for the future of African music.
“I am thankful to everyone who made this dream possible — the fans, my family, my team, and my colleagues. The story continues, and I am humbled to still be a part of it,” he concluded.
