Ali Baba (Atunyota Alleluya Akpobome)

Meet Atunyota Alleluya Akpobome, better known as Ali Baba — Nigeria’s Godfather of Stand-Up Comedy.

Born on June 24, 1965, in Agbarha-Otor, Delta State, Ali Baba was raised in a royal family and spent his early years in Warri. His father was a soldier who served in Lagos.

Ali Baba attended Command Secondary School in Lagos, then Ibru College in Delta, and later studied Religious Studies and Philosophy at Bendel State University, now Ambrose Alli University in Ekpoma. Interestingly, his university neighbor was none other than Pastor Chris Oyakhilome.

But comedy, not religion, became his calling.

After graduating in 1990, he moved to Lagos and dove straight into comedy — performing at corporate events, appearing on TV with the likes of Patrick Doyle and Charly Boy, and doing radio with legends like Bisi Olatilo and Sani Irabor.

In 1991, he also worked briefly as an executive assistant, but comedy remained his true passion.

By the mid-90s, Ali Baba had redefined what it meant to be a professional comedian in Nigeria. He wasn’t just funny — he brought class, structure, and value to the comedy industry.

In 2014, he launched the 1st January Comedy Concert — an annual event that reviews the past year through laughter and also rewards top academic achievers.

In 2015, he introduced “Spontaneity,” a comedy contest for fresh talent. It helped launch names like Woli Arole and many others.

Today, Ali Baba is more than a comedian — he’s a mentor, promoter, and pioneer. He believes the comedy industry is big enough for everyone and actively supports young comedians to keep the craft growing strong.

From royal roots to comedy royalty, Ali Baba remains a legend, a trailblazer, and the cornerstone of Nigeria’s stand-up comedy revolution.