Nigerian music legend Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has penned an emotional open letter to mark 25 years of an illustrious career that has shaped the sound and identity of Afrobeats.
The multi-award-winning artiste, who began his journey in the late 1990s as part of the iconic group Plantashun Boiz, expressed profound gratitude to the people who contributed to his success, describing his career as one defined by grace, growth, and gratitude.
In the letter titled “Open Letter of Gratitude – 2Baba @ 25 Years in the Industry,” the veteran singer reflected on his two-and-a-half decades in the music industry, appreciating those who believed in him even before he fully understood his purpose.
“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.
2Baba went on to recognize several individuals who helped lay the foundation for his 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 of himself, Faze, and Blackface — and believing in their potential when they were still struggling to find their voice.
“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 in appreciation.
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The “African Queen” crooner also praised Baba Keke and D1 for their pivotal role in offering him his first major record deal, a moment he described as a turning point not just for him but for Nigerian pop music.
“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 said.
Prompt News reports 2Baba further extended his gratitude to Eddie Lawani, who gave Plantashun Boiz the opportunity to showcase their music during a period when the Nigerian entertainment scene was still developing, while also thanking DJ Jimmy Jatt for his unwavering loyalty and early support.
The veteran artiste emphasized that his 25th anniversary celebration was not solely about personal milestones but also a recognition of the collective effort that shaped his artistry and Nigerian music as a whole.
“Without the people who believed, corrected, and supported me, my story would have been incomplete,” he added.
From African Queen to If Love Is a Crime and For Instance, 2Baba’s influence on African music remains timeless. Beyond his art, he continues to use his platform to advocate for peace, love, and national unity — values that have defined both his career and his legacy.
As he celebrates this milestone, fans and colleagues across the world have joined in acknowledging the impact of a man who has remained a true symbol of resilience, humility, and artistic excellence in African music.
