2Baba marks 25 years in music as artiste clocks 50
The demonstrators, who gathered at Murtala Mohammed Square prior to marching through the city's main thoroughfares, accused an unidentified oil cartel of obstructing and undermining local refinery projects, especially the Dangote Refinery.
Singing songs of solidarity and holding signs with messages such as "Support Local Refining," "Crush Economic Saboteurs," and "Protect Dangote Refinery," the demonstrators asserted that Nigeria must be freed from economic manipulation.
Their leaders, Comrade Igwe Ude-Umanta and Comrade Dahiru Umar Maishanu, emphasized that urging the President was essential to rescue Nigeria from a cartel that has prospered through importation and fuel shortages, to the detriment of national progress.
During a press conference in Abuja, Mallam Yankee of Yankee Entertainment reflected on his musical journey, stating that 2Baba's foray into music commenced in the late 1990s when he collaborated with Blackface and Faze to establish the renowned music group Plantashun Boiz. He noted that the trio achieved national recognition before parting ways, which subsequently paved the path for 2Baba's flourishing solo career.
Having been born and raised in Benue State, 2Baba attended Mount Saint Gabriel Secondary School and later enrolled at the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT) in Enugu, before deciding to follow his passion for music.
However, Mallam Yankee remarked that his choice, deemed risky at the time, ultimately facilitated opportunities for numerous young and underprivileged Nigerians who subsequently discovered a means of escape within the entertainment sector.
He said: “Since going solo, 2Baba has released multiple chart-topping albums and hit singles, including the global classic “African Queen”, which gained international acclaim and helped define the new era of Afrobeats.
“He is known for his deep lyrics and socially conscious themes. Widely regarded as one of Africa’s most influential musicians, his songs often transcend entertainment, addressing love, unity, and social responsibility,” he said.
The jagaban of entertainment said Hits such as “For Instance”, “Only Me”, and “One Love” highlight 2baba’s commitment to promoting moral and political consciousness among his listeners, stating that through his work, 2Baba has not only entertained audiences but also used his platform to advocate good governance and youth empowerment.
“Beyond his music, 2Baba is admired for his humility and dedication to his family. Despite occasional controversies surrounding his personal life, the singer has remained grounded, often emphasizing that fame does not make him immune to human flaw,” Yankee said.
Speaking further, he said, those close to him have constantly described him as a devoted father and husband whose love for his family continues to reflect in his public life.
Mallam Yankee announced that his 25th anniversary in the music industry coincides with the birthday of his wife, Natasha, “making the celebration even more symbolic.”
He stressed: “As 2Baba turns 50, he stands tall as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished musicians whose influence has crossed borders and generations. From local stages in Enugu to global platforms, his story remains a source of inspiration to many African artistes.
“With 25 years of consistent success, numerous awards, and global recognition, 2Baba’s name has become synonymous with excellence, resilience, and creativity in African music.”
He said The Abuja event is expected to be a reflection of that legacy, hence the rider, “May I know You Again”
Mallam Yankee said: “It’s not just a celebration of a man, but a movement that helped redefine the sound and spirit of African entertainment.”
