….as Project hits 10th anniversary

By Gabriel Ewepu

ABUJA – NIGERIA’S music legend and icon, Innocent Dibia, popularly called 2Baba, has been officially unveiled as a major partner in the ‘Made in Benue’ Project.

2baba’s unveiling was on the basis to herald a new phase in the decade-long cultural and creative movement originating from Benue State., hence is now the biggest Ambassador of the Project. It will recalled that the Project which started in 2026 is basically to translate talents from the stage to the economic corridor.

Meanwhile, 2Baba said the Made in Benue’ Project is a movement that is far beyond just an event people know, adding that it is a Project that is targeted on boosting the rich cultural heritage, huge economic potential and integrating the untapped social endowments of Benue State.

He said: “MADE IN BENUE is a movement, a cultural, economic, and social awakening designed to showcase the strength, creativity, and potential of the Benue people.

“Our mission is simple: to take Benue to the world.”

Therefore, the Benue born music icon further stated that it is imperative for Benue people at home and in the Diaspora to unite and become major driving force to galvanize the huge potential in the people and resources abundantly endowed and available.

Meanwhile, he passionately appealed to the Governor of Benue State, Rev.Fr. Hyacinth Alia, to be the powerhouse of the movement as far as youth empowerment is concerned for rapid economic growth and development of Benue State.

He (2Baba) also did not hesitate to appeal to corporate organizations, government agencies, and development partners for their support in order to achieve the Project’s objectives. He said their support is needed in the area of collaboration and investment while his 2Baba NewPhase Initiative will serve as a driving force behind the ‘Made In Benue’ Project.

“I am willing, ready, and deeply motivated to work with all stakeholders to ensure that this movement becomes a national and global force”, he stated.

Earlier, the Convener, ‘Made in Benue’ Project, Ordue Andrew Ikon, popularly known as OD Woods, disclosed the Project hits its 10th anniversary with the 2025 edition.

Ikon recalled that ‘Made in Benue’ Project kicked off in 2016 to serve as a major platform to promote Benue talents and culture to the world.

He also said the Project has metamorphosed from a one-day concert into one of Nigeria’s leading creative showcases, whereby, hundreds of young artists and talents their first exposure.

He also disclosed that the Project had created thousands of jobs in terms of event production, fashion, catering, and logistics.

“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.

According to him, 2025 edition would expand into a multi-day festival that would feature exhibitions – fashion, leather works, food and beverage production, tourism, and hospitality, showcasing Benue’s economic potential to attract potential investors to the State.

He described 2Baba’s involvement, 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 said.

He also expressed optimism that the partnership will create 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”, he added.