Atunyota Alleluya Akpobome, popularly known as Alibaba was born on the June 24, 1965, in Warri, Delta State. Alibaba’s journey from a law graduate to a comedy icon is a testament to resilience, innovation, and passion.
It is therefore noteworthy to honor his transformative impact on the Nigerian comedy industry and align his achievements with excellence and greatness.
Alibaba pioneered stand-up comedy in Nigeria, turning it from a niche art form into a vibrant, multi-billion-naira industry. In the early 1990s, when comedy was barely recognized, he took bold steps, performing at events and hosting shows like Night of a Thousand Laughs, which became a launchpad for countless comedians.
His resilience shone through despite initial skepticism (his father disowned him for choosing comedy over law), yet Alibaba persevered, earning his first major paycheck of ₦50,000 in 1993, a fortune at the time. By 2015, The Guardian noted his role in building Nigeria’s comedy scene into arguably the world’s second-largest after the U.S.
His achievements are monumental. Alibaba was the first Nigerian comedian to ring the Year-End Closing Bell at the Nigerian Stock Exchange in 2012, symbolizing comedy’s economic impact. He’s a Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps, reflecting his civic influence. As a mentor, he’s nurtured talents like Basketmouth, AY, and Julius Agwu, fostering a legacy of creativity. His philanthropy stands out, donating cars to young comedians and supporting causes quietly.
Alibaba’s global promotion of Nigerian comedy, through tours and platforms like Alibaba’s Spontaneous, has elevated the industry’s international profile.
His humor tackles societal issues, from politics to everyday life, fostering unity through laughter, much like our goal to connect Nigerians through shared pride in achievement.
From his acting roles in Nollywood to his entrepreneurial ventures, like founding a photography business and hosting corporate events, Alibaba’s versatility embodies the Nigerian spirit of hustle and innovation. His over 30-year career, marked by discipline and authenticity, aligns with our commitment to recognizing sustained excellence. As he celebrates 60, The Qoheleth salutes Alibaba’s humor, heart, and hustle, which continue to shape Nigeria’s cultural landscape.
