Tinubu hails Ali Baba on 60th birthday

President Bola Tinubu has hailed  Ali Baba, the ace comedian born Atunyota Akpobome, on the occasion of his birthday.

Ali Baba turned 60 on June 24, 2025.

In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, special adviser on information and strategy to the president, Tinubu described Ali Baba as a “trailblazer who revolutionized Nigeria’s comedy industry”.

Tinubu also praised Alibaba’s “contributions to Nigeria’s creative economy,” stating that his work has helped position the “entertainment industry as a significant contributor to national development”.

The president wished the comedian continued good health and more years of inspiring upcoming talents in the entertainment sector.

“Widely regarded as the father of stand-up comedy in Nigeria, Alibaba has helped build the industry into a vast ecosystem that contributes to the country’s GDP,” the statement reads in part.

“President Tinubu enjoins Alibaba to continue inspiring the younger generation of comedians to hone their skills to reach the zenith.

“The President wishes him good health and many more years of impact in the entertainment industry.”

Ali Baba is a Nigerian stand-up comedian, master of ceremonies and actor. He was born in Agbarha Otor, Delta state, to the royal family of Agbarha Otor.

He is the first son of several children and spent his first eight years in Warri, Delta. His father is a retired soldier who served in Lagos.