Nigerian music icon, Innocent Ujah Idibia, better known as 2Baba, has been officially unveiled as a major partner in the ‘Made In Benue Project,’ marking a new phase in the decade-long cultural and creative movement originating from Benue State.
  
The development makes him the biggest ambassador of the project, which started in 2016 with focus on translating talents from the stage to the economic corridor.
  
Speaking at a joint press conference held at JRC Chariot Apartments, Abuja, the Africa Queen hitmaker described the project as a movement that goes far beyond an event, emphasising its cultural, economic, and social dimensions.
  
“Made In Benue is a movement, a cultural, economic, and social awakening designed to showcase the strength, creativity, and potential of the Benue people. The project is a movement to unveil a new, prosperous, talent-driven Benue. Our mission is simple: to take Benue to the world,” 2Baba said.
  
He called on Benue indigenes, both at home and in the diaspora to rally behind the initiative, and particularly appealed to the State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, to champion the movement as part of a broader drive for youth empowerment and economic transformation.
  
2Baba also urged corporate bodies, government agencies, and development partners to support the project through collaboration and investment, noting that his 2Baba NewPhase Initiative will serve as a driving force behind the Made In Benue vision.
  
“I am willing, ready, and deeply motivated to work with all stakeholders to ensure that this movement becomes a national and global force,” he added.
  
Also speaking at the press parley, the convener of the project, Ordue Andrew Ikon, popularly known as OD Woods, revealed that the 2025 edition marks the 10th anniversary of Made In Benue, which began in 2016 as a platform to promote Benue talents and culture.
 
He noted that the event has evolved from a single-day concert into one of Nigeria’s leading creative showcases, giving hundreds of young artistes and talents their first exposure, while creating thousands of jobs across event production, fashion, catering, and logistics sectors.
  
“What began as a dream to give Benue talents a stage has become one of Nigeria’s most anticipated entertainment and cultural events. Today, Made In Benue is a brand, a movement, and a celebration of identity,” OD Woods said.
  
He revealed that this year’s edition would expand into a multi-day festival featuring exhibitions in fashion, leather works, food and beverage production, tourism, and hospitality, all aimed at highlighting Benue’s economic potential and attracting investors.
  
OD Woods described it as a “major boost” for the project’s next phase, saying the award-winning artist embodies the ideals of authenticity, creativity, and global excellence. “2Baba’s partnership brings a new level of value and inspiration. His involvement is not just about performance. It’s about mentorship, vision, and giving back,” he noted.

Pix: ‘Made In Benue Project