Nigerian music icon, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, has said that despite prevailing economic and security challenges, the country is in a better condition than it was years ago.
The award-winning singer made the remarks during a recent interview on “Chookmouth” on Wazobia FM with media personality Yaw.
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Responding to questions on Nigeria’s progress and political landscape, with the host referencing his socially conscious song “E Be Like Say”, 2Baba maintained that the country has made gradual progress over time.
“We are better off than so many years ago, if you look at it,” the father of seven said.
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He, however, expressed concern over what he described as a culture of blame-shifting among citizens, arguing that many Nigerians fail to take personal responsibility while holding leaders solely accountable for systemic issues.
“One funny thing with Nigeria is that many things are happening. If someone drinks sachet water and throws it on the expressway, they will say it is caused by Tinubu. When it blocks drainage, they will say it is the governor’s problem.
“Everybody is deviating from their own personal responsibilities, and that is the majority of what is happening in Nigeria,” the Jos-born singer said.
Zero civic awareness
The 50-year-old singer further lamented low levels of civic awareness, noting that many citizens are disconnected from grassroots governance.
“Many people don’t even know who is representing them in the House of Representatives. Many don’t know their councillors in their wards. It’s beer parlour gist that becomes fact-checking,” the singer said.
According to him, societal divisions along religious and ethnic lines also contribute to the country’s challenges, as citizens often defer responsibility rather than actively engaging in nation-building.
“We have a demarcation of people who want one result, but nobody wants to take responsibility for their own part in making that result possible. So we have a huge community of complainers who don’t add value.”
Despite his criticism, the ‘If Love Is A Crime’ crooner acknowledged the complexity of governing Nigeria, describing leadership in the country as an extremely difficult task.
“To rule Nigeria — anybody who was there, past and present — I used to pity them,” he added.
Political stance
Asked about a possible foray into partisan politics, the singer clarified that while he has been actively engaged in civic life, he has not aligned with any political party.
He referenced his 2017 Vote Not Fight campaign, which promotes peaceful participation in elections.
“I have been in politics; it’s only that it’s not the way you think. I did a Vote Not Fight campaign, which required me to be non-partisan. It’s still on, but I want to take a breather. I will pitch my tent and try to work on something,” he noted.
2Baba also disclosed plans to expand his advocacy efforts, positioning himself as a cultural ambassador for Nigeria.
“I have personally appointed myself as an ambassador of Nigeria everywhere. We are starting with music against violence. It’s a massive movement.”
2Baba’s remarks come against the backdrop of Nigeria’s complex historical and socio-political evolution.
Formed in 1914 following the amalgamation of the Northern and Southern Protectorates under British colonial rule, Nigeria has navigated decades of political transitions, from independence in 1960 to prolonged military rule beginning in 1966, and a return to democracy in 1999.
Since then, the country has witnessed successive civilian administrations and democratic consolidation, including the landmark 2015 election that marked the first peaceful transfer of power to an opposition party.
Under President Bola Tinubu, who assumed office in 2023, the government has pursued economic reforms under the “Renewed Hope” agenda. Key measures include removing fuel subsidies and adjusting the foreign exchange rate to stabilise the economy and attract investment.
While these reforms are designed to promote long-term growth, they have also triggered rising living costs and inflationary pressures, affecting millions of Nigerians.
At the same time, the country continues to grapple with security challenges ranging from insurgency in the North-East to banditry and communal violence in other regions.
Recent attacks, including the killing of dozens of residents in Plateau State, added to the ongoing concerns about safety and stability.
At least 27 to 30 people were killed during a violent attack on the Angwan Rukuba community in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State on the night of Sunday.
Afrobeats, global recognition
Speaking on the global rise of Afrobeats, the Benue state singer dismissed concerns that the genre is fading, insisting it continues to evolve and thrive.
“Afrobeats is versatile; it is every sound. The only thing is that it must be authentic and come from Africa. We are the ones who can validate it; the rest of the world is to enjoy it.”
The ‘African Queen’ singer stressed that African artistes should prioritise local validation over international awards.
“Whether they give us awards or not is their prerogative, but it has to be us who validate it. Afrobeats can never die.”
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Widely regarded as one of the pioneers of modern Nigerian music and a key figure in the global expansion of Afrobeats. With hit songs such as ‘African Queen’ and ‘If Love Is A Crime’, he has earned multiple international awards and recognition, including MTV EMAs, BET Awards, and MOBO Awards.
In 2025, Billboard ranked his song “African Queen” No. 1 on their list of the best Afrobeats songs of all time.
Beyond music, he has consistently used his platform to advocate for peace, civic responsibility, and good governance, supporting initiatives to reduce electoral violence and promote national unity.
Last year, he was appointed Technical Adviser on Entertainment and Community Outreach to the Benue State Governor, Alia Hyacinth. 2Baba has also launched peace initiatives, such as the United North-Central for Peace Promotion (UNCPP), and serves as the Music Ambassador for the World Peace Record Forum.
