Legendary Nigerian singer and songwriter, Innocent Ujah Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has penned a heartfelt open letter to commemorate his 25th anniversary in the music industry, expressing deep gratitude to everyone who has walked the journey with him.
In the touching piece titled “Open Letter of Gratitude: 2Baba @ 25 Years in the Industry,” the music icon reflected on his incredible journey, the people who shaped his path, and the lessons that have defined his life and artistry.
“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.”
The African Queen crooner paid tribute to the pillars who helped launch and sustain his career, including Nelson Brown, Baba Keke (Kenny Ogungbe), D1 (Dayo Adeneye), Eddie Lawani, and DJ Jimmy Jatt.
He fondly recalled Nelson Brown as the first person who believed in the dream of Plantashun Boiz, the trio made up of himself, Blackface, and Faze, which marked his earliest steps into fame.
“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”, he wrote.
2Baba also acknowledged Baba Keke and D1 as mentors whose support and influence helped transform his aspirations into global success.
“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 went on to appreciate Eddie Lawani for offering Plantashun Boiz a stage when the odds were stacked against them and for his unwavering faith in their craft.
Likewise, he lauded DJ Jimmy Jatt, whom he described as a “brother and day-one supporter,” for standing by him through every phase of his career.
According to 2Baba, his 25-year milestone isn’t just about his personal achievements but a reflection of the resilience, unity, and evolution of Nigerian music as a whole.
“Without the people who believed, corrected, and supported me, my story would have been incomplete”, he stated.
From his humble beginnings in the late 1990s with Plantashun Boiz to becoming one of Africa’s most respected music exports, 2Baba’s influence has spanned generations. With timeless hits like African Queen, If Love Is a Crime, and For Instance, his name remains synonymous with excellence, authenticity, and longevity.
As he celebrates this landmark year, 2Baba’s open letter stands as a reminder of the power of gratitude, humility, and the people behind every success story.
