News
2Baba Aligns with the Made in Benue Initiative to Champion a Renewed Wave of Cultural Revival
…..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
News
Nigeria at 66: ‘We Must Not Lose Faith in Nigeria’ — FCC Boss Omidiran
Joel Ajayi
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Honorable Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary to renew their faith in Nigeria, strengthen national unity and recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and prosperous country.
In her 66th Independence Day message, Hon. Omidiran described October 1 as more than a celebration of freedom, saying the anniversary provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, acknowledge its progress and challenges, and renew the collective determination to build a nation where every citizen has a sense of belonging.
According to the FCC Executive Chairman, the Federal Character Principle remains particularly important to the quest for national cohesion because equitable representation promotes a sense of ownership and confidence in the Nigerian project.
“Nigeria is a nation of great diversity and
enormous potential. Our responsibility is to ensure that this diversity becomes a bridge that connects us rather than a barrier that separates us. Every Nigerian deserves to feel that he or she belongs to this country and has a role to play in its development,” Omidiran said.
The FCC boss called on government institutions at all levels to remain committed to fairness, equity, accountability and inclusive governance, while urging citizens to support efforts aimed at strengthening national institutions and promoting peaceful coexistence.
“We must not lose faith in Nigeria. The challenges before us are real, but so are the opportunities and the enormous human and natural resources available to us. Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute his or her own quota to building the Nigeria we desire,” she stated.
The FCC Executive Chairman also urged young Nigerians to remain committed to acquiring knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, sports and other productive ventures, describing the youth as critical stakeholders in the country’s future.
“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us remember that the Nigeria we want cannot be built by government alone. It requires the commitment of all of us – leaders and citizens, young and old, from every part of the federation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where justice, fairness, opportunity and peace are available to all,” she said.
Omidiran reaffirmed the FCC’s commitment to the effective discharge of its constitutional mandate and to supporting efforts that promote equitable representation and inclusive national development across the federation.
The former lawmaker wished Nigerians at home and abroad a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary, praying for continued peace, stability, prosperity and progress for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Our differences should never be greater than our common identity as Nigerians. Let us continue to choose unity over division, service over self-interest and hope over despair. The Nigeria of our dreams is possible if we all play our part,” Omidiran said.
“On behalf of the Federal Character Commission, I congratulate all Nigerians on this 66th Independence Anniversary. May this occasion renew our patriotism, strengthen our unity and inspire us to work together for a stronger, more equitable and prosperous Nigeria. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she added.
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