…..Says project is a movement to unveil a new, prosperous, talent-driven Benue 

Joel Ajayi 

Nigerian music icon Innocent “2Baba” Idibia 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. 

In a statement Signed Andrew Orduen Ikon (OD Woods) and Innocent “2Baba” Idibia on Friday in Abuja reveavs that, This 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, 2Baba described the project as “a movement that goes far beyond an event,” emphasizing 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,” 2Baba said. 

According to him, “Our mission is simple: to take Benue to the world,” in which case he has called on all Benue indigenes, both at home and in the diaspora, to rally behind the initiative, and particularly appealed to the State Governor, His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, to champion the movement as part of a broader drive for youth empowerment and economic transformation.
2Baba has 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.

The convener of the project, Ordue Andrew Ikon, popularly known as OD Woods, announced 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.

According to him, the event has evolved from a single-day concert into one of Nigeria’s leading creative showcases, giving hundreds of young artists 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.

Announcing 2Baba’s involvement, 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.

The partnership is expected to open new opportunities for Benue creatives, strengthen local industries, and project the state’s unique heritage to a global audience.

The Made In Benue Live Concert and Festival is scheduled to hold on December 26, 2025, in Makurdi, Benue State.

“Let us come together. Let us tell our story. Let us elevate Benue,” 2Baba declared, saying, “Greatness is truly Made in Benue.”

For more information follow @madeinbenue on all social media platforms or go to the official website: www.madeinbenue.com 

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