Alibaba at 56: Five things to know about the veteran comedian
On this day, 56 years ago, veteran stand-up comedian, master of ceremony, actor and on-air personality Alibaba was born. He has been a professional stand-up comedian for over 30 years. During this time, he has won several awards and achieved multiple accomplishments. To celebrate his birthday, we share five facts to know about him. Take a look at them.
His real name
Alibaba’s real name is Atunyota Alleluya Akpobome. The comedian was born in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria on June 24, 1965, to the royal family of Agbarha Otor. He is the first son of several children, and he spent his first eight years living in Warri.
His alma mater
Alibaba had a good educational background before he began his career in comedy. He attended Ojo Primary School and Command Secondary School in Lagos. The master of ceremonies is also an alumnus of Ibru College in Agbarha-Otor and Bendel State University (now Ambrose Alli University), Ekpoma where he majored in Religious Studies and Philosophy.
Something seriously funny
In 1993, he registered a company called Alibaba Hicuppuray 3rd. The firm initially aimed to enhance the perception of comedians as a profession and a respected way of life. As part of this work, five years later in 1998, he hired billboards on strategic Lagos streets with the message that became known as “Being Funny is Serious Business”. This later went a long way into improving the standards of comedy in Nigeria and paving the way for other comedians.
Something more serious
In 2012, he rang the Year-End Closing Bell of the Nigerian Stock Exchange. This made Alibaba the first Nigerian comedian to ever do so.
His love life
He has been married to his wife, Mary Akpobome since 2006. His heartthrob is currently an executive director of Heritage Banking Company Limited of Nigeria (HBCL). She oversees the Service and wealth management group under the company.
Over the years, he has also mentored several comedians and graced hundreds of shows across borders. All of us at eelive.ng wish him a happy birthday today.
