2Baba

2Baba (born Innocent Ujah Idibia) is a highly influential Nigerian singer, songwriter, record producer, and entrepreneur. He is one of the most decorated and successful Afrobeats artists of all time, known for his pioneering role in the contemporary Nigerian music scene. **Early Life and Education** Innocent Ujah Idibia was born on October 1, 1975, in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria, though he is originally from the Idoma ethnic group in Benue State. He began his education in Makurdi, Benue State. While attending the Institute of Management & Technology (IMT), Enugu, where he pursued a National Diploma in Business Administration and Management, he began performing at school events and local venues. He eventually dropped out of school to focus entirely on his music career. **Career Progression and Rise to Fame** 2Baba’s professional music career began in 1996. He later formed the famous hip-hop group Plantashun Boiz in 2000 with fellow artists Blackface (Ahmedu Augustine Obiabo) and Faze (Chibuzor Oji). The group released two successful albums, *Body and Soul* (2000) and *Sold Out* (2003), before disbanding in 2004. Following the dissolution of Plantashun Boiz, 2Baba launched a solo career under Kennis Music, releasing his debut album, *Face 2 Face*, in 2004. This album, featuring the global hit "African Queen," catapulted him to international stardom. He followed up with *Grass 2 Grace* in 2006. In 2007, he founded his own record label, Hypertek Digital. Subsequent albums include *The Unstoppable* (2009/International Edition 2010), *Away and Beyond* (2012), and *The Ascension* (2014). His latest studio album, *Warriors*, was released in 2020. **Major Achievements and Notable Works** 2Baba is renowned for being the first Nigerian artist to win the MTV Europe Music Award for Best African Act in 2005. His hit song "African Queen" remains one of the most successful songs to come out of Africa, even being ranked No. 1 on Billboard's list of the best Afrobeats songs of all time in 2025. His extensive list of accolades includes a BET Award for Best International Act, Africa (2011), four MTV Africa Music Awards, a MOBO Award, a KORA Award, five Headies Awards, and numerous Channel O Music Video Awards. He was also honored with the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) by the Nigerian government. **Current Status** As of his current status, 2Baba remains an active figure in the music industry, releasing new music and performing globally. Beyond music, he is recognized for his philanthropic work and social activism. He is married to Nigerian actress Annie Macaulay.