2Baba Joins ‘Made In Benue’ Project As Major Stakeholder, Movement Enters New Phase

The Made in Benue project has entered a new phase with the formal announcement of music icon Innocent ‘2Baba’ Idibia as a major stakeholder, signalling a broader cultural and economic push for the initiative as it marks its 10th anniversary. The announcement was made yesterday at a media engagement in Abuja, where organisers had a conversational session and assured journalists that the project was ready to unveil its expansion plans.

Founder of the initiative, Ikon Ordugn Aka, Od-Woods, said Made in Benue was established nine years ago to counter negative narratives about the state and promote the creativity, resilience, and economic potential of the people of Benue. He explained that the project was born out of frustration with repeated misrepresentations of the state in the media, noting that the team decided to “tell our own stories” And highlight the positive work of young people across entertainment, agriculture, business, and culture. “We decided to blow our own trumpet,” he said. “Because if the trumpet belongs to you, nobody should play it better.”

Od-Woods noted that this year’s edition carries additional significance as it coincides with 2Baba’s 50th birthday, the artist’s 25th anniversary in the music industry, and the project’s 10th anniversary. Speaking after his introduction as a stakeholder, 2Baba described the movement as a cultural and developmental engine that must be strengthened to represent Benue at national and international levels.

“Made in Benue is not just an event,” he said. “It is a cultural, economic, and social movement. The 2Baba Foundation is fully committed. I am willing and motivated to work with all stakeholders to push this initiative forward.” He called for stronger unity and collective participation from Benue people at home and abroad, stressing that communities must take charge of their narratives rather than leave them to outsiders.

The marketing manager, Jessica Ikon, one of the early team members, recalled the project’s modest beginnings. She said the first edition was held in a small club in Makurdi but grew over the years through consistency and support from partners. “We started with hope,” she said. “Seeing this milestone today shows how far the movement has come.”

In an exclusive with LEADERSHIP’s lifestyle editor, Ms Adejoke Henry, 2Baba said, “Let us blow our trumpet. Let us tell our story. Let us elevate Benue. It marked a moment of collective ownership.
A cultural renaissance carved not from politics or power, but from creativity, resilience, and the unmistakable pride of a people ready to redefine their narrative”.The 10th anniversary edition of the festival is scheduled to be held on December 26 in Makurdi.