Abuja witnessed a stunning fusion of opulence, culture, and heartfelt celebration on April 12, 2025, as nightlife mogul and businessman, Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly known as Obi Cubana, marked his 50th birthday in extraordinary fashion. Aptly themed “50 for 50”, the week-long festivities showcased not only the celebrant’s stature and influence but also a profound appreciation for faith, family, and philanthropy.
A Celebration Steeped in Style and Spirit
Known by the honorary title Okpataozueora1, Obi Cubana welcomed his golden jubilee with a dignified Instagram post that captured the tone of the celebrations. Clad in resplendent traditional attire, he simply wrote, “12.04.25 Happy Birthday, Obi Cubana. 50yrs! 50for50.” His wife, Ebele Iyiegbu (Lush Eby), echoed this sentiment with a tribute of her own: “You are my gift, Dim oma!”—a heartfelt reminder of the personal love that grounded the grandeur.
Kicking off even before the big day, the birthday festivities blended tradition and glamour. Highlife artists, dancers, and cultural performers transformed the atmosphere around his Abuja residence into a live cultural festival. A particularly moving moment came with Anyidons’ debut of a tribute single, ‘Obi Cubana Special (Okpole Nwa Mama)’, an emotional nod to the man behind the empire.
A Night Before to Remember
On Friday, April 11, Samsung Nigeria set the tone for the weekend with an exclusive event titled “The Night Before 50.” Hosted in Abuja, the soirée combined tech and celebration in true Cubana style, as 50 units of the flagship Samsung S25 smartphone were gifted to guests in his honour.
An all-white afterparty followed, where Cubana’s close-knit circle of staff, friends, and family welcomed him into his sixth decade at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel—the same venue that would later host the main celebration.
A Spiritual Start to a Spectacular Day
Saturday’s celebration began on a solemn, spiritual note with a Holy Communion and Thanksgiving Service, grounding the day in gratitude and reflection. This intentional pause, before the festivities, underscored Cubana’s long-standing balance between business brilliance and spiritual mindfulness.
Celebrating with Purpose and Generosity
In collaboration with Gold Bar Whiskey, the celebrant launched the “Golden Age with Gold Bar” campaign—a creative initiative calling on artists to design a commemorative 50th birthday logo. The winning artist stood a chance to receive N2 million, a luxury car, and VIP access to events in Abuja, Lagos, and select international cities. The campaign showcased Obi Cubana’s continuous drive to empower and uplift.
The birthday presents, however, were far from ordinary. Enviable Transport Limited, led by Ituma Chukwuemeka, made a headline-grabbing gesture with the delivery of 50 brand new tricycles, while CIG Motors, represented by Jubril of Lagos and Chairman Diana Cheng, gifted the entrepreneur 50 new minibuses, each adorned with his image.
Other noteworthy contributions included 2,000 cartons of tomatoes from Sonia Foods, and a generous package of dresses, bags, and wigs for 50 individuals, courtesy of Lush Eby. Earlier in the week, Obi Cubana also received 50 rams, 50 Bibles, and even a bag of cash from his brother—a nod to the colourful nature of Nigerian celebrations.
The Grand Finale
The main event, held at the Transcorp Hilton, was a spectacle of elegance and pageantry. With a palette of black, white, and gold, the venue dazzled under crystal chandeliers, floral centrepieces, golden chairs, and towering portraits of the celebrant, transforming the hall into a royal banquet befitting the king of nightlife.
The guest list read like a who’s-who of Nigeria’s entertainment, business, and social elite. From Kanayo O. Kanayo, Kennedy Okonkwo, and Zubby Michael, to Cubana Chief Priest, AY Makun, E-Money, Daddy Freeze, and Jowizaza—the celebration was as much about community as it was about the celebrant himself.
A Legacy Beyond the Spotlight
At 50, Obi Cubana is more than just a businessman or party icon—he is a cultural figure whose life story resonates with themes of hustle, generosity, and unwavering faith. The “50 for 50” celebration was not just a milestone event—it was a statement of purpose, impact, and legacy.
As the lights dimmed and the music faded, one thing remained clear: Obi Cubana’s golden age is just beginning.