Legendary Nigerian singer Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has written an emotional open letter to celebrate his 25th anniversary in the music industry, expressing heartfelt appreciation to those who have been part of his remarkable journey.
In the message titled “Open Letter of Gratitude – 2Baba @ 25 Years in the Industry”, the music icon reflected on his career, describing his 25-year path as one filled with gratitude, memories, and valuable lessons.
He said his success would not have been possible without the unwavering support of the many people who believed in him, even before he understood the direction destiny was taking him.
“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.
In the letter, 2Baba paid tribute to several 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 and nurturing Plantashun Boiz — the group that 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, a space when all we had was a dream,” he said.
2Baba also appreciated industry pioneers Baba Keke and D1, describing them as mentors whose belief in his potential opened life-changing opportunities.
“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 noted.
He went on to commend Eddie Lawani for giving Plantashun Boiz a platform to showcase their talent when the industry offered few chances to upcoming artists, saying Lawani’s faith in them has remained steadfast over the years.
The veteran singer also expressed gratitude to DJ Jimmy Jatt, praising him for his early support and consistent loyalty throughout his career.
For 2Baba, the celebration goes beyond personal achievements — it’s also about recognizing the people and experiences that have shaped the evolution of Nigerian music.
“Without the people who believed, corrected, and supported me, my story would have been incomplete,” he added.
Since beginning his professional career in the late 1990s with Plantashun Boiz, 2Baba has risen to become one of Africa’s most respected and influential artists. With timeless hits such as African Queen, If Love Is a Crime, and For Instance, he continues to inspire millions through his music and humanitarian work, using his platform to promote unity, love, and social change.
