By Johnson Esther- Today, Innocent Ujah Idibia, better known across the world as 2Baba just hit the big 50!
Today, he has marked his 50th birthday, and with it, Nigeria pauses to celebrate one of its most enduring cultural icons.
Turning fifty is no small feat, half a century on earth, and he’s still got that effortless cool that made “African Queen” the love song of an era, especially in the ever-changing world of music where relevance can be as fleeting as the latest chart hit. Yet, for 2Baba, this milestone is less about survival and more about legacy.
Born in Jos in 1975, 2Baba’s story has always been one of persistence, vision, and an uncanny ability to adapt. From his early days with Plantashun Boiz to his groundbreaking solo debut with Face 2 Face in 2004, he has consistently redefined what it means to be a Nigerian artist on the global stage. Songs like African Queen did not just resonate locally; they broke barriers, proving that African music could thrive in global markets long before Afrobeats became the worldwide force it is today. In this sense, 2Baba is not simply a musician, rather, he is a trailblazer who cleared the path that countless others now walk.
His wife, Natasha Osawaru, poured her heart out in a birthday tribute, reminding fans that behind the icon is a man still loved and cherished.
In a heartwarming Instagram post, Natasha wrote:
“Happy birthday to the love of my life. You are 50!!!!!! Oh wow!!!!!! You spaced me with 20 years, and you look younger than I do. How ironic. Innocent Ujah Idibia, my husband…. words cannot express the joy you’ve brought into my life. My joy is complete with you in it. This year was the best year of my life…. waking up to you every morning is one of the greatest gifts ever, and I thank God for that. Baby, I want to spend each day loving you and @official2 caring for you for the rest of my life. I love you, and happy birthday, my baby.”
We are celebrating what’s here and what’s next. At this stage, 2Baba doesn’t need to chase hits to prove himself. His catalog speaks louder than any chart.
So, here’s to 2Baba at 50; a pioneer, a lover, a survivor, and most of all, a legend who still has more to give.
