Legendary Nigerian musician, Innocent Idibia, widely known as 2Baba, has written a deeply emotional open letter to commemorate his 25th anniversary in the music industry, expressing profound appreciation to everyone who has played a part in his remarkable journey.
In the touching piece titled “Open Letter of Gratitude 2Baba @ 25 Years in the Industry,” the multi-award-winning artist reflected on his musical odyssey, the people who supported him, and the lessons he has gathered over the years.
He described his career as one filled with gratitude, memories, lessons, and love, while acknowledging that his success story would not have been possible without the faith and support of those who stood by him even in uncertain times.
“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 his letter, 2Baba recognized several industry figures who were instrumental in his rise to fame, including Nelson Brown, Baba Keke (Kenny Ogungbe), D1 (Dayo Adeneye), Eddie Lawani, and DJ Jimmy Jatt.
He credited Nelson Brown for discovering and believing in Plantashun Boiz, the trio 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 expressed heartfelt gratitude to Baba Keke and D1, whom he referred to as mentors who opened professional doors that forever changed the course of his life and Nigerian entertainment as a whole.
“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.
The iconic singer extended appreciation to Eddie Lawani for providing a platform where Plantashun Boiz could showcase their talent when opportunities were scarce, noting that Lawani’s belief in their potential has never wavered.
He also lauded DJ Jimmy Jatt for his long-standing loyalty and support since the early days of his career, describing him as a brother and a constant source of encouragement.
2Baba emphasized that this milestone goes beyond personal achievement, stating that it represents a tribute to everyone who has contributed to the growth and global recognition of Nigerian music.
“Without the people who believed, corrected, and supported me, my story would have been incomplete.”
From his early beginnings in the late 1990s with Plantashun Boiz to becoming one of Africa’s most celebrated music icons, 2Baba’s legacy includes timeless classics such as African Queen, If Love Is a Crime, and For Instance.
