Nigeria’s stand-up comedy pioneer, foremost entertainer and leading show host, Ali Baba turned 50 on June 24, 2015. Below are all tributes from colleagues, comments from fans and friends, in celebration of his grand birthday.
Tweets
Special special birthday shout out to a living legend that seems to keep refreshing his brand continually @ALIBABAGCFR and setting the pace!
— Audu Maikori (@Audu) June 25, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR, 50? Really? You don’t look a day over 70. Hehe… Thanks for the industry of laugh. Love you. Hugs. — Funmi Iyanda (@Funmilola) June 25, 2015
Happy Birthday to my Ukot, a friend and brother @alibabagcfr. The Lord bless you and cause you to… https://t.co/ITW72ePUJg
— Kate Henshaw (@HenshawKate) June 24, 2015
U’re truly a man of wisdom & I’m blessed to be in this generation to hear u speak. @ALIBABAGCFR pic.twitter.com/yuwXspNgRB — Kingsley Dan-Patrick (@OfficialMaharaj) June 25, 2015
#AlibabaAt50 @alibabagcfr. All u see in me 2 day started as a seed one man sowed over 2 decades ago.I watched him grow into greatness /1
— Holy Mallam (@holymallam) June 25, 2015
#AlibabaAt50 @alibabagcfr I nw apreciate life beta dan I did over 15 yrs ago.He has a goldn heart big enuf 2 acomodate evry 1 God bless Ali — Holy Mallam (@holymallam) June 25, 2015
Sugar and I…….lol Happy Birthday in arears boss Many more in good health. #alibabaandi https://t.co/E6Fd7DpAjC
— Ayotunde Oluwole (@Aysugarr) June 24, 2015
#happybirthday to the man that puts me on my toes. You are #rare #alibabaat50 https://t.co/v0GNagDCSh — Shuga (@akinShuga) June 24, 2015
Happy birthday to the king of comedy in Africa @ALIBABAGCFR. Many more years to come in Jesus name sir. AMEN. #AlibabaAt50
— Akinlolu JEKINS (@Akinlolujekins) June 24, 2015
May God bless and protect @ALIBABAGCFR for visiting the less privilege *in tears* — REMEDY (@callmidjremedy) June 28, 2015
Celebrating Nigeria’s comedy pioneer! Happy birthday @alibabagcfr! You continue to inspire us all.… https://t.co/X2wUN9TInL
— Red Media Africa (@RedMediaAfrica) June 28, 2015
Chei @alibabagcfr please turn 50 everyday the turn up was madt https://t.co/ok8xcCs0zq — LOLO 1 of WAZOBIA FM (@Officiallolo1) June 24, 2015
Only fitting that it should take an entire week to celebrate @alibabagcfr. He has transformed lives,… https://t.co/bkqph9BtIP
— Chude Jideonwo (@Chude) June 28, 2015
Iro ni Ooo! So @ALIBABAGCFR you will be 50yrs this month? Koje jebe …you don’t look 50 at all! Well, HBD in advance bros. — I’m The Chosen 1 (@JordanOluremi) June 23, 2015
got d tape of @AliBabaGCFR comedy of 1998, 2004 & 2006 from my dad old locker. can’t stop laughin #livinLEGEND #KINGALI #hapi50FOREVER ^_^
— Ehi Kelvin Osasumwen (@g5stunner) June 27, 2015
still cant believe @ALIBABAGCFR is 50 ooo…he looks younger than his age mehn! God will continue to bless u sir — Ololade Akintola (@OloladeOFFICIAL) June 27, 2015
1 tin is sure. Weeks after his birthday, we’d stil be celebratin him. #RareGem #Humble #NastyToStupity😁 @ALIBABAGCFR pic.twitter.com/oGkBTzttVi
— DeboDrorgs (@DeboDrorgs1) June 26, 2015
Happy birthday to an amazing friend, a scintillating Boss @ALIBABAGCFR . Wishing you all the good things in Life. pic.twitter.com/5UENzEp0E1 — Raphael Nwaneri (@Pando_007) June 24, 2015
I look forward to meeting u someday & hugging u. I know u’ve had a fun filled birthday. I wish u peace. @ALIBABAGCFR pic.twitter.com/srMiphHS2D
— Kingsley Dan-Patrick (@OfficialMaharaj) June 25, 2015
While growing up, we we’re inspired by @alibabagcfr!! Happy golden jubilee oga boss.. More blessings — No.1 ACMILAN Fan (@MC_patodin) June 25, 2015
Soooo, my darlyn bros @alibabagcfr turned 50yrs?? Wooow!! Yes i am surprised o, i use to think he was… https://t.co/R2js7mnfvK
— AnnyLuv♥ #INOGOFEAR (@anny_sings) June 25, 2015
I was Live at the Home of @ALIBABAGCFR Yestaday…I notice one thing in his Life and all his friends…#100%Diligence — El Emmanuel (@Iammr_ice) June 25, 2015
Happy 50th bday to one of Nigeria’s special talents @ALIBABAGCFR keep moving up always! #proud of you bro #legend @tolaOdunsi @audu Pls rt
— Obi Asika (@obiasika) June 25, 2015
When a man is able to create an industry and produce several top class acts that’s a successful man. Happy 50th to d maestro @ALIBABAGCFR — praise fowowe (@praisefowowe) June 25, 2015
Happy birthday to the “purple-loving” Oga, a mentor in more ways than one @ALIBABAGCFR ;obviously ur past 50 yrs have been golden indeed.
— Amanda Michaels (@qutemandee) June 25, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR U surely have made a difference in your chosen field. The URHOBO nation remains proud of u & ur achievements Happy birthday!!! — Wethepeople (@vyncentie) June 25, 2015
Happy Birthday @ALIBABAGCFR ….LLNP…God bless your new age…..Celebrating a true legend and great leader… pic.twitter.com/EzEDjLlEL9
— The Beatz Awards (@TheBeatzAwards) June 24, 2015
Happy birthday to the ancestor of comedy @ALIBABAGCFR a living legend..#oluwaisinvolved #wecelebrateyousir pic.twitter.com/yTHLCKsUPi — mc b warriman (@Bwarriman) June 24, 2015
I said it! @ALIBABAGCFR must be an alien!! Shares the same birthday with Leo Messi!!! Messi’s comet arrived 22 years after his own! HBD
— Samuel Ayobami. (@hayourbahme) June 24, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR HAPPY BIRTHDAY SIR. I HAD TO TWEET IN CAPS IN CELEBRATION OF YOUR GOLDEN JUBILEE. WE LOVE YOU AND GOD BLESS YOUR NEW AGE — Ojute Yomi Samuel (@Yhormzie) June 24, 2015
Happy birthday to the man wey sabi, my boss , the man with a great heart. More blessings and grace to age well. @ALIBABAGCFR
— AMB. Rems Comedian (@Remscomedy) June 24, 2015
HAPPY BIRTHDAY 2 GRAND COMMANDER OF D FEDERAL REPUBLIC @ALIBABAGCFR MAY D ALMIGHTY CONTINUE TO BLESS, GUIDE AND PROTECT YOU IN JESUS NAME — sir jeff (@sirjeff4real) June 24, 2015
Happy 50th to a pioneer; the grandfather of the comedy industry in Africa. #AlibabaBeAllYouCanBe @ALIBABAGCFR pic.twitter.com/fXhrWhiV09
— The Catalyst® (@lanreolusola) June 24, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR Happy birthday to an Icon of estimable grace,HAPPY BIRTHDAY GREAT LEADER,you inspire us! — mark idiahi (@markidiahi) June 24, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR He was there setting d pace wen odas were looking afar off..happy birthday king…
— VJADAMS (@iamvjadams) June 24, 2015
Happy birthday @ALIBABAGCFR: vintage performer, quintessential gentleman! Enjoy your day. — Modele Sarafa-Yusuf (@modelesy) June 24, 2015
Long Live the King @alibabagcfr happy birthday sir … God bless you sir !!! https://t.co/Q4z9TDyWOR
— xclusivemicomedian (@xclusivemic) June 24, 2015
Hbd Oseh @alibabagcfr long life nd prosperty sir.. https://t.co/qbKTn4eK3a — SOLIDSTAR (@solidstarisoko) June 24, 2015
May @ALIBABAGCFR live long, merry to the fullest of life and in greatness of health + vitality #HappyBirthdayAlibaba #GoldenJubilee
— EJEI Kalu (@ejeikalu) June 24, 2015
Happy Golden Jubilee to the ♔ of comedy- @ALIBABAGCFR May you be blessed with all the good things that you desire… pic.twitter.com/ow49QheYo9 — Seriously Speaking (@seriouslyspking) June 24, 2015
I woke up one morning to find this amazing comedian @ALIBABAGCFR following me. HBD sir! GBU beyond measures. Ur 🌠star will never go dim sir
— Abby (@abbyswt) June 24, 2015
@DrJoeOdumakin @ALIBABAGCFR yes activist d english av bin eluding me since cos I don’t see him as a comedian to point blank yabin HBD Aliba — Emiola muyiwa (@Emiolaosa) June 24, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR Is one Man i respect so much in the Entertainment Industry…HBD Sir!
— #thatITGuy (@izzodking) June 24, 2015
Happy 50th Birthday to a trailblazer, thank you for the precious gift of laughter that you dish out generously. MHR @ALIBABAGCFR — Kadaria Ahmed (@STWKadaria) June 24, 2015
It’s big bros birthday today….Yayyyyy, @alibabagcfr is 50. 🙌🙌🙌😘😘🙆🙋🎂🎁🎉🎈 My dear egbon,… https://t.co/tv9U7wlBGM
— Nikki Laoye (@NikkiLaoye) June 24, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR WELCOME TO THE GOLDEN AGE,MAY YOUR TALE BE LIKE THAT OF A WINE. THE OLDER THE BETTER. CHEERS — ADURAGBEMI (@denizdakutu) June 24, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR Happy 50th Birthday my correctest world Ukot (50 is nod a yok mbok) God’s innumerable blessings today and always xxx 👊👏
— Ubong Nseobot (@NseobotUbby) June 24, 2015
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE KING OF COMEDY….Happy 50th Birthday sir @alibabagcfr pic.twitter.com/iXEYvTw5kg — michael joseph (@61michaeljoseph) June 24, 2015
Happy 50th birthday to my AMAZING & SPONTANEOUS Boss @ALIBABAGCFR May the Lord DOUBLE YOUR YEARS with more INCOME, IMPACT & VISIBILITY!
— The EdgeEcutioner™ (@IAmSteveHarris) June 24, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR happy birthday to you big boss,u are a motivator to many of us,may GOD grant u more years and blessings protection mercy. — shamsideen ayodeji (@layodeji44) June 24, 2015
HAPPY BIRTHDAY @ALIBABAGCFR NIGERIA’S HULK OF COMEDY .#AliBabaandD50Thieves pic.twitter.com/JDHbCbAThP
— Titus SCHWA Bankole (@stbanky007) June 24, 2015
Happy birthday to @ALIBABAGCFR.A rare gem who uses his platforms and intellect to expose other creative individuals pic.twitter.com/bZSDj15lAQ — Dolapo Aina (@DolapoAina) June 24, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR HBD Sir. May the Lord continue to bless and enrich you in Jesus name.
— Femi Faseru (@PstFemiFaseru) June 24, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR the great king of comedy.. i greet you bro. Happy birthday and many more years to you — Muonanu Raymond (@LORDRAY007) June 24, 2015
Happy Birthday to a Legend that is still being written @ALIBABAGCFR … Greater milestones ahead in Jesus name!!!
— IamSPORTASTIC (@sayoowolabi) June 24, 2015
There’s something I like about @ALIBABAGCFR. Almost every Comedian I know have something good to say about him. Keep inspiring people boss! — Laz #TalkHealth9ja (@donlaz4u) June 24, 2015
We wish u laughter and joy as u celebrate a monumental time in ur life. Happy Birthday @alibabagcfr pic.twitter.com/g59gJ590wP
— Now Muzik (@nowmuzik) June 24, 2015
Boss pls lemme do dis in caps…HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE KING OF MY REPUBLIC @ALIBABAGCFR GOD BLESS U MORE AND MORE… pic.twitter.com/Qh0NWFsCuQ — Talktalk… (@TheRealTalktalk) June 24, 2015
Happy birthday to an amazing friend, a scintillating Boss @ALIBABAGCFR . Wishing you all the good things in Life. pic.twitter.com/5UENzEp0E1
— Raphael Nwaneri (@Pando_007) June 24, 2015
Happy Blessed Birthday to @ALIBABAGCFR one of the realest souls I know in the business a spirit which has refused to become an industry type — WEIRD MC (@weirdmcofficial) June 24, 2015
50 Happy Cheers to a great man! @ALIBABAGCFR I wish you all the best life has to offer. In short bros, I do somersault 4 u. You will last.
— Karina Eyeto (@K_baba247) June 24, 2015
Happy birthday big uncle @alibabagcfr , Wishing you good health , happiness , joy & many many more… https://t.co/Kf64r9Uztx — DJ SPINALL (@DJSPINALL) June 24, 2015
Happy Birthday BROS!!!!! @alibabagcfr Thank you for everything……long life, great health, wealth… https://t.co/4iFaqgeLpd
— Basketmouth (@basket_mouth) June 24, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR Many more blessings, long life and prosperity. Happy Birthday Sir. God bless you and yours… pic.twitter.com/RcAzhDO593 — ‘daeze (@adaeze07) June 24, 2015
Happy Birthday to the Baba of dem all! Doyen of Stand up comedy in Nigeria, Compere par excellence @ALIBABAGCFR himself! God bless u Sir
— Hamid Adediran (@doctalk01) June 24, 2015
Dearest bro of life and beyond, hapi ber dey bro, we go celebrate when I show. Have a nice one. @ALIBABAGCFR — Richard Mofe-Damijo (@RMofeDamijo) June 24, 2015
When i met @ALIBABAGCFR was at night of a thousand laugh the man is naturally gifted stubborn tho lol @CoolFMNigeria @manipulator77 #Ali@50
— IG @OluwaJiga (@JesseJiga) June 19, 2015
Happy Birthday to an amazing #ICON @alibabagcfr #LongLiveTheKing https://t.co/z9V6A2R8mH — Capital FEMI (@CapitalFEMI) June 24, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR happy birthday sir… wishing u llnp
— AKPORORO OFFICIAL (@Akpororo_) June 24, 2015
Happy birthday @ALIBABAGCFR baba of comedy! Wishing u llnp. Am delighted 2 know dat we share d same month yippeee! GGMUB. Av fun sir — Juliet Young (@yinotinto) June 24, 2012
@ALIBABAGCFR ….HAPPY BIRTHDAY SIR…WISHING U LLNP AND MAY GOD CONTINUE TO GUIDE, DIRECT AND BLESS U ALWAYS
— KENTUCKY (@obistylesp) June 24, 2013
E be like say my teeth plenty sha……. @alibabagcfr Live Long…..Live well. @ Heathrow Airport https://t.co/e3k0KYi7Q7 — Basketmouth (@basket_mouth) June 24, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR Ogbeni Oga awon alawada! HBD! Many returns in good health & great exploits. We toast to better days & welcome u to d golden age
— Folarin Salami (@OgbeniFolly) June 24, 2015
Today I honour @AlibabaGCFR who through his hands& that of a few others , an industry has been built, enterprises sustained, nations laugh! — Olusola Amusan SA (@Olusolamusan) June 24, 2015
@alibabagcfr bros migwo!! Hmmmmmmmmmmm… Don’t even know how I’ll start. So much to say.. Wish I had… https://t.co/VbkSvKMldj
— Jedi Ayo (@ComedyJedi) June 24, 2015
Celebrating you @ 50, may you live long even till 200. Happy birthday sir @ALIBABAGCFR — BunMystique (@estillo) June 24, 2015
Happy Birthday sir @alibabagcfr . We are indebted to you for taking the road less traveled. God bless… https://t.co/Q2a998gHUp
— Lami Phillips (@lamiphillips) June 24, 2015
@alibabagcfr: Congrats boss. Thanks for being such a blessing to us all. https://t.co/o3D9QjSaIC — Efe Omorogbe (@EfeOmorogbe) June 24, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR awesome, amazing alibaba happy birthday sir. A legend and a blessing. Young man
— Enyi Omeruah (@enyiomeruah) June 24, 2015
You are half a century old! 50 is the new 30! Happy birthday @ALIBABAGCFR WERON! — OSAM (@OSAMNTSC) June 24, 2015
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU Alibay God continue bless you and family @alibabagcfr https://t.co/5jF0LbglqX
— Daddy Showkey (@daddyshowkey1) June 24, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR Hapy birthday great man. Ee pe fun wa l’oruko Jesu, isu omo a jina fun yin jé, ko de ni jona mo yin lenu.Ojo a tubo dale o.Amin — Prince O. Onugha (@prinsolo) June 22, 2015
I must be the last but, Happy Birthday Egbon!! @alibabagcfr If Alibaba was a Musician, what would… https://t.co/ufqu26GjXc
— BEZ (@BEZidakula) June 24, 2015
Happy 50th birthday to the main man himself @alibabagcfr Blezzing ov h’almighty! https://t.co/oK8OBDR9vk — #ElloBae (@falzthebahdguy) June 24, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR If there is one person who makes turning fifty appear classy and cool – it’s you. Happy 50th birthday boss! — yemi idowu (@yemiyek) June 24, 2015
Sorry it’s late. Happy birthday Sir! Thank you for being such an inspiration. God bless @alibabagcfr https://t.co/wwR8xNfhBa — Yvonne VIXEN Ekwere (@vonnevixen) June 24, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR Happy birthday 2 our dearest Brutha frm anutha Mother!Wish u long life, peace & prosperity always. Frm us #TWO cc @iamTundeObe
— Wunmi (T.W.O) Obe (@WunmiObe) June 24, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR Happy birthday 2 our dearest Brutha frm anutha Mother!Wish u long life, peace & prosperity always. Frm us #TWO cc @iamTundeObe — Wunmi (T.W.O) Obe (@WunmiObe) June 24, 2015
Just b4 today bids goodbye, I throw salute + happy bday wish 2 ‘Oga on top’, @ALIBABAGCFR on your 50th. More grace & knowledge IJN. Congrats
— ‘deji OSASONA (@DrOsaz) June 24, 2015
#Alibaba@50 still celebrating the legend @alibabagcfr https://t.co/uUjLASx3yn — gbenga adeyinka 1st (@gbengaadeyinka) June 25, 2015
Father Lord, thank you for @alibabagcfr, and forgive those that conspired and pushed me into the… https://t.co/gs4JHRHwR1 — Guvnor (@Cguvnor) June 25, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR …..Nwanem!!!!!!21 Gunsalute on your highly crucial Birthday!!!Bless up!!!! — Blackky Inyang (@Blackky3) June 24, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR bros 50 years, true, true or play, play? He he he, God’s grace upon you. Happy birthday sir. @ALIBABAGCFR 4 u23.😀
— Niaja gooner (@adesiteyemi) June 22, 2015
Amen “@pweediekerry: Cant believe this handsome man is 50 already @ALIBABAGCFR ….God continual blessing sir” — His Royal Majesty (@GerrardSEjah) June 22, 2015
Happy Birthday Sir @ALIBABAGCFR 50 yrs? Walahi u look 35…. young and kicking. wish u so many more years of God’s Blessings. Cheers — Oryiman Alu (@Oryims) June 22, 2015
@BeejayLaw1 @ALIBABAGCFR O boy! You don reach 50 just now? No wonder you quick add BABA to your name…! Congrats bro! — Chris Ohwodiasa (@chrisdiasa) June 22, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR Happy 50th Birthday Sir. You are such a great man and a blessing to our Nation. Keep doing that you know how to do best. — Olabamiji A. Adeyeye (@BeejayLaw1) June 22, 2015
To the mentor,the King who made other Kings, the selfless @ALIBABAGCFR The light you shine into others is a reflection of your Sun!HBD Sir — Tomiwa (@TomiwaSage) June 22, 2015
I remember way bak in d late 90s wen we await @ALIBABAGCFR on AIT. He is still as fresh as then. #HGoldenBirthday
— Election Updates (@OkanlawonTijjan) June 21, 2015
@ALIBABAGCFR I waited till this time to send my wishes to u so it will be apart from the crowd. HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO A GREAT INSPIRATOR!!! — Mc KOFFI from GHANA (@AKAOLU25) June 21, 2015
GOD Will Continue to Bless, Protect you and your family sir.. @ALIBABAGCFR ah Dad, u re a KING ooh
— Bright Uzoma (@AdviserComedian) June 21, 2015
Happy Birthday @ALIBABAGCFR Father of all, Comedy Legend. 11 days after my birthday…wow, congratulations sir. — OyasBaba (@OyasBabaCFR) June 21, 2015
» » Silver or Gold I have none but what I have I shall give unto thee : Bless be the night u were conceived. HBD sir. @ALIBABAGCFR — Seraph (@Yommie_Scream) June 21, 2015
Happy Birthday @ALIBABAGCFR Best wishes and God bless. Please send cake to Ibadan. Hahaha. — Josephine (@JosieAmiegbe) June 21, 2015
Happy Birthday to my Ukot, a friend and brother @alibabagcfr. The Lord bless you and cause you to continue to be a blessing. Have fun as I know you will.. Huge hug and lots of love. 😘😘😘😘 A photo posted by Kate Henshaw (@k8henshaw) on
Big #birthday #shoutout to @alibabagcfr A photo posted by Jimmy Jatt (@djjimmyjatt) on
#TBT 10yrs ago, #AlibabaAndI @alibabagcfr hosted us to a buffet of an after party. A photo posted by Holy Mallam (@officialholymallam) on
Still from yesterday #AlibabaandI #photoboothnaija #Alibabaat50 #funtimes #epic A photo posted by Omoni Oboli (@omonioboli) on
Happy 50th Birthday To The King Of Comedy Sir @alibabagcfr NB: Very nice outfit sir. Looks so descent on you but would have been more nicer if your suit jacket/Tuxedo is fitted, most especially the arm and also having to wear a black or silver bow tie matching with your shirt. i would also recommend you to wear a hat next time on such outfit. HBD Sir!!! #NattyCouture.
A photo posted by Abiodun Akinlabi (@nattycouture) on
Hbd Oseh @alibabagcfr long life nd prosperty sir..
A photo posted by SOLIDSTAR JOSH INIYEZO (@officialsolidstar) on
It’s a hard thing not to love @alibabagcfr. As with everyone with our imperfections, so he isn’t excluded. Yet @alibabagcfr is such an amazing guy, egbon and more. I rejoice with you on thus wonderful occasion and pray your days be long. May God add life to your years and years to your life. Have a golden new year. #alibabaat50 #celebrations #celebratingtheking #kingofcomedy #trailblazer #lagos #portharcourt #abuja #nigeria #london #newyork #dubai #southafrica A photo posted by Tosin Olukuade (@tosinolukuade) on
#Repost @abinibi Happy Birthday Sir…. Emi yin a se opo odun laye ninu ola nla ati alaafia to pe ye. More blessings sir @alibabagcfr ・・・ Just before his timeline gets flooded tomorrow, let me quickly hail the GCFR. Happy 50th Birthday [football age] @alibabagcfr. May the rest of your years be greater than the ones you’ve lived. Thank you for the plenty opportunities, sir, and thank you, in advance; for your willingness to stop yabbing me everytime. 😃😊 #AlibabaAt50 #AbinibiArt A photo posted by Adetutu Ademosu (@oloripalmville) on
Yes…witness the roasting of @alibabagcfr #alibabaat50 #Freedompark #lasgidi A photo posted by Gbemileke Oscar Oyinsan (@oscarinthecity) on
Hahahahah😅😅 @alibabagcfr be like. .”Gimme beat… gimme beat.. let me show you people my dance steps”. #AboutLastNight at Gyration night for #Alibaba50thBirthday. #AlibabaAt50 A video posted by Timilehin Bello (@bigtimi) on
I would like use this opportunity to say a huge thank you and a happy birthday to this great and humble Man Ali Baba. Thank you for giving so many of us a pathway to a great career. May God of creativity continue to smile on you. Happy birthday Boss. #alibabagcfr #laughwithmcpc #august2nd2015 A photo posted by MCPC (@comedianmcpc) on
Throw back pic….Tom, Dick and Ali……i was an apprentice here. By the way….i was not the skinniest……abeg look at Dare’s neck. Happy birthday Ali Baba…a great man you are.
Posted by Basketmouth on Wednesday, June 24, 2015
Tributes
***10 facts no one would tell you about Alibaba – By Sound Sultan
Nigeria’s comedy pioneer and TV personality, Alibaba – real name Atunyota Alleluya Akporobomerere – turns 50 on, June 24, 2015. In celebration of the landmark birthday, Sound Sultan has shared 10 things no one would tell you about the stand comedy pioneer.
Nigeria’s comedy pioneer and TV personality, Alibaba – real name Atunyota Alleluya Akporobomerere – turns 50 today, June 24, 2015. In celebration of the landmark birthday, Sound Sultan has shared 10 things no one would tell you about the stand comedy pioneer, promising to unveil a total of 50 facts by the end of today.
Read below…
- Saw him 1st time on Youth Scene
- Made stand up Comedy an institution
- Took over from John Chukwu
- Patrick Doyle and Edie Lawani with Ali baba cracked us on Friday night live
- Gave Tee A a chance
- Gave basketmouth mouth
- Gbenga Adeyinka learnt from him
- Gave Baba dee 30k for his launch when 1 k was like 1 million ! Lol
- Has the longest name in the game
10. The Most humble person I know
***Bovi pays lovely tribute to Nigerian comedy pioneer
OCT 30th, 2005…. Around 10pm; alibaba walked up to me and said ‘you’re funny. You should do standup comedy. You’re funnier than many of the guys already out there. You even funny pass *************’ .
Well, it wasn’t until 2008 I chose to make the very bold move. 3 years later. In those three years I had had trouble sleeping each night I watched other comedians. And his words echoed repeatedly in my head. The night he saw me, it was at an arts exhibition. The mc was doing a bad job. There was an interlude. But there was nothing to fill the space. So I grabbed the mic, blood rushing to my head and started to blurt out the few jokes I knew. It was the first audience in lagos I had ever faced as a standup comedian (save for a private party in December 2004). The audience stared at me, either out of pity or curiosity. But not out of interest. The jokes were funny but I wasn’t.
However the bespectacled alibaba looked on with his hand to his chin and a permanent smile. He was the only source of encouragement in this firing squad. Soon it was over and just as the event rounded off and guests made their way outside, he walked up to me and said those words I will never forget . ‘You’re funny….’ Happy 50th birthday to @alibabagcfr.
***Ali Baba: A different kind of Wisdom – TY Bello writes
ALIBABA :A DIFFERENT KIND OF WISDOM When I got commissioned to make portraits of @alibabagcfr for his 50th birthday anniversary ,I knew I was in for something really special .
I decided it wasn’t necessary to pre- sketch any ideas but let the shoot evolve organically . I didn’t want to bring in props .. I just asked him to make interesting narratives with ordinary objects in the room.. This way of photographing was parallel to what I find in his comedy: taking familiar Nigerian scenarios and getting us all to laugh at our selves…We were in for a show.. We laughed till we cried. !! Photographing him and from our conversations in the past ,I’ve found him to be one of the deepest thinkers of our time.
I’ve learnt to look and listen past his comedy and connect with his profound commentary on our culture.. He has not only changed the way we humor but he generally has us decoded…How we think and behave.. The politics .. Society .. Religion .. Business.. He gets what makes us tick..What makes us ‘us’.. Expressing this with real genius ..while creating new platforms for this gift …opening doors for a new generation of comedians. Today … I will be celebrating a great Icon , businessman and all-round amazing individual .Happy birthday Alibaba.. Thank you for fanning to flame a movement .. You make us all proud. Starting now .. I’m going to attempt to share 50 posts from his sessions and have you all caption and share with him.
***’Many Colours Make a thunder King – Lafup writes
One of my greatest teachers and coach once wrote…’Many Colours Make a thunder King’, I think he was referring to you Boss.
I still clearly remember the very first time I met you in person and it was live on stage as I introduce you to stage at Costain West Africa’s 60th Anniversary at Civic Centre Lagos( Nov. 22, 2008). It’s was my biggest gig then even with a clear pay-cheque never received before then. My shock was, one of the event collaborator from Nigerian Stock Exchange had wonder why the little me got the Job when the big Boss Ali baba was there. The excuse was their regular MC showed up late at their previous event and the MD, Phil Walton wanted him changed. Phil was cool with me anchoring the event so long I could pronounce his name lol. So that year, I was paid 150k and I felt this is it! All for one of the stake holders in the company to step in and ask who I was? In her words…who is Lafup? Ta lo mo(who knows him?) we need an A-list , we are having over 10 foreign high commissioners, industry bosses, Bank Mds and you say Lafup!’ she brought out her cheque book and said if the problem is budget take this( the woman signed a cheque of 1.5 million naira) and said call Alibaba and say it’s from me! ‘ i didn’t know how to feel but the only prayer on the then Ibadan boy was this my own 150k make them no commot inside am or say make I return cheque. Mr Walton, the MD came back to me and said, Lafup! I like the way pronounce my name so, I’m good with you still. You’ll run it with Alibaba okay? On the day of event, after being pressured to hand over to Alibaba, I did and the lanky dude just came up ask all the big shots to kindly listen to ‘this young’man anchoring, he again ask the audience if I was doing a great job and they all said yes and Ali said I think Lafup should continue his Job or what do you guys think? Ali handed me the mic and went back to sit. I ran the show like it was my last.Ali came up for only 3 mins not to over shadow me but to prop and hype me before people who hoped i fail. That meant everything Boss a rear thing people in your level do. May you get all the roses you deserve while you’re Still here.HBD mentor
***Nigerian comedian, D’Lectura pens powerful tribute capturing Ali Baba’s legacy
It was on a sunny afternoon on Tuesday, November 2, 2004, I called him on his mobile phone. He picked the call, I greeted, and started explaining myself to him…that I am a good comedian that came from Benin and I need his help.
He responded: ‘WHO GAVE YOU THIS NUMBER?’
I lied: ‘I saw it in a magazine’
’I NEVER GAVE THIS NUMBER TO THE PRESS, THIS IS MY VERY PRIVATE NUMBER AND IT IS ONLY MY FAMILY MEMBERS THAT CALL ME WITH THIS LINE…WHEN YOU CALL MY BUSINESS LINE, I WILL ATTEND TO YOU’
Before I could say a word, the phone went dead.
Meanwhile a good friend gave me two of his numbers and told me that the business line is always on voice mail, so I didn’t bother calling it.
I had to wait for two days before calling the business line again. I called back on Thursday, reintroduced myself and he gave me appointment to meet him in his office on Monday. I was so happy that I forgot to ask where his office is located.
I got to Eleganza building before 10am and at the reception I was directed to his office on the 9th floor.
Meanwhile…I was in the bus on 3rd mainland bridge when I started having stomarch upset (This one na purge o).
So as a result, I couldn’t wait for the elevator to come down…I started running through the stairs to the 9th floor.
On getting to his office, I met a Youngman who coincidentally happens to be my namesake -EMMANUEL- he was actually my saviour on that faithful day because he had to give me the key to the rest room as soon as he noticed my awkward predicament.
You can’t imagine the feeling when I noticed I was sitting down easing myself in the same place where Ali Baba does same…hahahaha…and this particular experience, gave birth to one of my top 5 jokes then. (Purge).
I came back to the office…thanked Emma and then told him I have appointment with Ali Baba, he asked me to wait that Ali Baba is busy inside.
But few minutes later a lady came out of the office and asked me to leave and re-book my appointment that Ali Baba is not on seat.
I left…but on getting to the down floor, my instinct told me to at least call him before heading back to Akute.
He picked my call the moment I called. When I told him I was in his office but was told he was not in, he sounded surprised and asked me if am sure am in his office because he is right in the office. Then I told him I was already at the ground floor. He told me to come back up but immediately asked me to wait that he is coming down.
He came down and after explaining myself…he asked me to go up-stairs, collect a pen and paper from Emma and write down six of my own jokes.
It took me hours to get this task done because most of my jokes are demonstrative jokes.
I called again on Thursday and he asked me to come on Sunday, to Meidan Hotel (now NICON HOTEL) VGC, where he used to run a comedy club every Sunday.
I got there on time and met him. He mounted the stage, performed for an hour and introduced me on stage.
ALI BABA never asked me anything about me…not even my name or my tribe.
He told the audience to encourage me that am good as he invited me on stage.
I performed that night and dazzled the audience. When it was time for me to leave…he asked me to join one of his cars. I was taken to his mansion in Lekki where I passed the night by his younger brother Efe. I saw other comedians like AY, De Don, Jedi etc.
The next morning, breakfast was served and after eating, I found myself with other comedians sitting in Ali Baba’s private room gisting, joking & laughing for hours. When the other comedians left the room, I was alone with him and he started advising me. He told me a whole lot of things about life and the comedy industry. This was a man I met just the previous day. And those words is part of what made me who I am today. I remember he told me that day that ‘vulgar jokes will always yield more laughter…but will never get you a job’
He even gave me some money when I was leaving (mind to mind…i was stranded that day.)
And that was how my comedy career in Lagos started professionally.
There are a whole lot of things that make him unique. ‘He Loves upcoming comedians hanging around him even in his bedroom….Ose…those memories will never fade and may God continue to bless you.
One other thing he does so well is introducing an upcoming comedian to his wealthy friends when you are with him. He does it so well in a way that elevates your spirit…making you feeling like a star and so important.
I know I am still far from where am going…but today, when I look back, I notice that I am very far from where I started.
Today I have a wonderful family and graciously doing well and comedy pays my bills. I give God all the glory…but I sincerely…I OWE THIS GREAT MAN A DEBT I CANNOT PAY.
I am using this opportunity to say a very BIG THANK YOU TO A MAN I RESPECT SO MUCH, WHO HAS BEEN A FATHER TO EVERY COMEDIAN… OSE…MINGWO AND HAPPY 50TH BIRTHDAY.
MY HEART BLEEDS FOR THIS IS COMING LATE. BUT IT’S BETTER DONE THAN NEVER.
God has really favoured you sire. You have been mightily blessed but am wishing you more blessings…wisdom and above all…I pray God to bless and favour your children’s children. The same way you have favoured us (CFR)…God will favour your generation.
May the next 50 years be more glorious and fruitful than the previous, In Jesus Name…Amen.