In a move that has generated excitement across Nigeria’s entertainment and youth advocacy spaces, the Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has officially appointed legendary musician Innocent Ujah Idibia, popularly known as 2Face or 2Baba, as a Technical Adviser to the State Government on Arts, Entertainment, and Youth Development.
The appointment was made public during a brief but colorful ceremony held at the Government House in Makurdi, where the governor praised the internationally celebrated music star for his consistent advocacy for peace, youth empowerment, and his deep-rooted connection to Benue State.
2Face, who hails from the Idoma-speaking part of Benue State, was visibly honored as he received the appointment letter and pledged his commitment to using his influence and expertise to promote positive change among Benue’s teeming youth population.
Tapping into Homegrown Talent for Development
Governor Alia, while presenting the appointment letter, described 2Face as an illustrious son of the state whose contributions to Nigeria’s creative industry and philanthropic endeavors have placed Benue on the global map.
“We are proud of what Innocent Idibia represents—creativity, resilience, humility, and passion for development,” the governor said. “As we continue to rebuild and transform Benue, it is only right that we bring on board homegrown talents who have achieved excellence and can inspire our youth.”
He added that the state was determined to harness the energy and creativity of its young people, and 2Face’s role would be crucial in designing programs that support talent development, mentorship, and entrepreneurship in the arts and entertainment sectors.
2Face Accepts Role with Enthusiasm
In his acceptance speech, 2Face thanked Governor Alia and the people of Benue State for the trust reposed in him, promising to do his best to serve with sincerity, passion, and innovation.
“This is a great honor and a big responsibility,” 2Face said. “I believe that through creativity, we can empower young people, give them hope, and build a society where talent is celebrated and nurtured.”
He pledged to work closely with the government and other stakeholders to identify, support, and mentor emerging talents across the state. He also hinted at plans to establish talent discovery programs, organize creative workshops, and launch youth development initiatives.
“I want young people to see this as proof that you don’t need to abandon your roots to make an impact. Benue has given me so much, and this is my way of giving back,” he added.
Social Media and Public Reactions
The announcement of 2Face’s appointment sparked immediate reactions across social media, with many Nigerians applauding the governor for recognizing the value of creative professionals in governance. The hashtag #2BabaInBenue trended on X (formerly Twitter) shortly after the event, with fans and public figures expressing excitement over the new role.
Popular actress and activist Kate Henshaw tweeted, “Fantastic move by Gov. Alia! 2Baba has always been a voice for the people. Congratulations, my brother!”
Other commentators praised the government’s openness to involving youth-friendly figures in leadership roles, describing it as a much-needed bridge between the government and the younger generation.
A Legacy of Advocacy and Impact
2Face is not new to advocacy and youth engagement. Through his foundation, the 2Face Idibia Reach-Out Foundation, he has spearheaded several campaigns focused on peacebuilding, education, voter awareness, and anti-violence initiatives, particularly in Northern Nigeria.
His Peace Ambassadors project and partnerships with organizations like the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR) have further solidified his image as more than just an entertainer, but also a social influencer and nation-builder.
Many believe his new role in Benue will provide a unique platform to institutionalize some of these initiatives at the state level.
Expectations and Tasks Ahead
As Technical Adviser, 2Face is expected to collaborate with the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, the Benue State Council for Arts and Culture, and other relevant agencies to chart a roadmap for nurturing the entertainment industry and engaging youths productively.
Policy analysts in Benue have noted that his appointment could lead to the development of entertainment hubs, talent incubation centers, and youth-focused events that promote positive values while boosting the state’s economy.
The appointment comes at a time when Nigeria’s creative industry is being increasingly recognized for its contribution to GDP and employment generation, and stakeholders say 2Face’s inclusion in governance could signal a strategic alignment of youth culture with state development goals.
A New Chapter for 2Face and Benue
With this new responsibility, 2Face Idibia now joins a growing list of Nigerian celebrities who are taking on official roles to contribute to nation-building. As he takes on his role as Technical Adviser, all eyes will be on how he leverages his experience, network, and star power to bring meaningful impact to his home state.
For many Benue youths, his appointment is more than symbolic—it is a sign that their voices and dreams matter, and that indeed, their heroes can rise from among them to inspire a better future.
