Governor Alia taps music icon Innocent Idibia for grassroots engagement, as the singer cements personal and cultural ties with Idoma leaders.
Byline:
By IDNN Culture & Governance Desk | April 23, 2025
[MAKURDI] — In a blend of pop culture, tradition, and governance, Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has appointed Nigerian music legend, Innocent “2Baba” Idibia, as the Technical Adviser on Entertainment and Community Outreach.
The appointment was made during a courtesy visit by the singer to the Governor’s office, where Governor Alia praised 2Baba’s long-standing commitment to social development and youth empowerment in Nigeria.
“We want to give you more responsibility, because you have the capacity to help us chart a way forward to improve people’s lives and contribute your wisdom,” Governor Alia said while announcing the appointment.
“You will now serve as Technical Adviser to the Governor on Entertainment and Community Outreach.”
The move has been widely applauded as a progressive step by the administration, with observers pointing to 2Baba’s national influence and grassroots appeal as key to rebranding Benue’s cultural and creative sectors.
Royal Recognition: 2Baba Introduces Fiancée to Idoma Leadership
Shortly before his appointment, 2Baba formally introduced his fiancée, Hon. Natasha Osawaru, a lawmaker from Edo State, to the Idoma traditional council during a high-profile event at the Och’Idoma Palace in Otukpo.
The ceremony took place on April 21, 2025, during the Idoma Nation Peace and Unity Symposium, where the singer, clad in traditional Idoma attire, presented Osawaru to His Royal Majesty, the Och’Idoma V, and key community leaders.
Following the palace event, the couple traveled to Okpokwu, 2Baba’s ancestral hometown, where they met with local elders and reaffirmed their cultural and familial commitment.
“This is not just a personal moment; it’s a renewal of my roots and my identity,” 2Baba said.
Entertainment Meets Governance: Why 2Baba’s Appointment Matters
2Baba’s role as Technical Adviser is expected to bridge the gap between government policy and creative expression, and serve as a channel for youth inclusion in governance.
As Nigeria grapples with youth disenchantment and rising unemployment, Governor Alia’s appointment signals a strategic integration of celebrity influence into civic engagement.
“We see this as a smart move,” said Dr. Becky Aondover, a cultural policy analyst at Benue State University. “2Baba brings credibility, relatability, and reach—especially with young people.”
A Culture Shift in Civic Engagement?
2Baba’s simultaneous public service role and cultural rite of passage speak volumes about the new politics of relevance.
In a country where trust in political elites is low, celebrity figures with authentic community ties are emerging as bridges between the state and the street.
His union with a respected Edo lawmaker and his return to local governance roles indicate a powerful mix of cross-regional unity, cultural affirmation, and political maturity.
This appointment raises a deeper question:
Could the key to reconnecting Nigerian governance with its citizens lie not in more policies—but in the credibility of those who carry the message?
