Music legend Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, is celebrating 25 years in the Nigerian music industry, marking a milestone that reflects his influence, endurance, and impact on the evolution of Afrobeats.
To commemorate the occasion, the veteran singer shared an emotional open letter on social media titled “Open Letter of Gratitude 2Baba @ 25 Years in the Industry,” where he expressed deep appreciation to everyone who has shaped his remarkable journey.
“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,” 2Baba wrote. “This celebration is not mine alone. It belongs to everyone who played a role in shaping the story of Innocent Idibia, 2Baba.”
He paid tribute to key figures who played pivotal roles in his early rise — including Nelson Brown, Baba Keke (Kenny Ogungbe), D1 (Dayo Adeneye), Eddie Lawani, and DJ Jimmy Jatt — acknowledging their support and belief in his talent long before fame arrived.
He praised Nelson Brown for discovering and nurturing the legendary group Plantashun Boiz, which launched his 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,” he wrote.
2Baba also thanked Baba Keke and D1 for opening professional doors that transformed his dreams into destiny. “You stood as mentors and big brothers, and your names will forever be etched in my story,” he said.
He went on to appreciate Eddie Lawani for giving Plantashun Boiz a platform to shine and DJ Jimmy Jatt for his unwavering support over the years.
The African Queen crooner concluded by dedicating his anniversary to everyone who contributed to his success and to the wider Nigerian music community that helped Afrobeats reach global prominence.
“Without the people who believed, corrected, and supported me, my story would have been incomplete,” he wrote, celebrating not just his legacy but the collective journey of Nigerian music.