Meet M.I Abaga, a renowned Nigerian rapper, record producer, and record label executive. Born on October 4, 1981, in Jos, Plateau State, he is professionally known by his stage name M.I Abaga. From humble beginnings to international recognition, M.I Abaga’s music journey has been nothing short of inspiring. Let’s delve into the life and achievements of this talented artist.
M.I Abaga was born to Pastor and Mrs. Abaga, hailing from Takum, Taraba State, with roots in the Jukun-Nigerian community. During his formative years, he developed a passion for music, drawing inspiration from artists like Lauryn Hill, Bob Marley, Sarah Maclachlan, Jay-Z, and DMX. He pursued a degree in business and economics at Calvin College in Michigan, USA, where he also explored his poetic talents and discovered his love for hip-hop.
The hip-hop bug bit M.I Abaga early on, and he began his musical journey in 1998 by sampling songs from DMX and Lauryn Hill. After returning to Nigeria in 2003, he started making mixtapes with his friend Djinee, entering a music scene dominated by established names like Modenine, Ruggedman, and Eedris Abdulkareem. M.I Abaga gained recognition for his track “Safe,” which cleverly imitated well-known Nigerian songs, earning airplay on African radio stations and MTV Vibe.
In 2006, M.I Abaga’s breakthrough came with the release of his debut single, “Crowd Mentality,” which quickly gained popularity in Jos, Nigeria. This success paved the way for his first studio album, “Talk About It,” released in 2008, followed by “MI 2: The Movie” in 2010. He continued to impress with his third studio album, “The Chairman,” in 2014, and the playlist “Rendezvous” in 2018. His fourth studio album, “A Study On Self Worth: Yxng Dxnzl,” also released in 2018, further solidified his reputation as a top-notch rapper.
Apart from his music career, M.I Abaga also ventured into entrepreneurship. From 2015 to 2019, he served as the CEO of Chocolate City, a prominent Nigerian record label. In 2020, he founded his record company, Incredible Music, marking a new chapter in his professional journey.
M.I Abaga’s talent and hard work have not gone unnoticed. He was nominated for Best International Act at the 2010 BET Awards and won Best Hip Hop and Best New Act at the 2009 MTV Africa Music Awards. Furthermore, he earned the title of UN Goodwill Ambassador and supports the Jostified initiative.
As of now, M.I Abaga is not married but is reportedly engaged to Eniola Mafe, co-founder of SecureFarmer.com, a social venture focused on training the next generation of farmers using technology and precision data.
Conclusion
M.I Abaga’s journey from the streets of Jos to becoming an influential figure in Nigerian and global hip-hop is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and entrepreneurial spirit. With an estimated net worth of $4 million, he continues to make an impact in the music industry and beyond. Keep an eye on this talented rapper as he continues to inspire and entertain audiences worldwide.
Follow M.I Abaga on Instagram (@mi_abaga) and Twitter (@mi_abaga) to stay updated on his latest endeavours and music.
FAQs
Who is M.I Abaga?
M.I Abaga, born Jude Abaga on October 4, 1981, in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria, is a prominent Nigerian rapper, music producer, and businessman. He is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most influential hip-hop artists and has played a significant role in shaping the Nigerian music industry. M.I’s debut album, “Talk About It,” was released in 2008, and he has since enjoyed a successful career with numerous hit songs and accolades.
What is M.I Abaga’s contribution to the Nigerian music industry?
M.I Abaga has made an indelible impact on Nigerian hip-hop and rap music. Known for his lyrical prowess and thought-provoking content, M.I has helped elevate the genre in a country traditionally dominated by Afrobeat and other music styles. His music addresses social, political, and personal issues, and he is credited with pioneering a new era of Nigerian rap that resonates with a broad audience. He has also signed and mentored several young talents, further solidifying his influence in the industry.
What is M.I Abaga’s net worth?
As of 2025, M.I Abaga’s estimated net worth is around $10 million. This wealth comes from various sources, including his music career, endorsements, business ventures, and investments. His music sales, successful albums, and features with other artists have also contributed significantly to his financial success. Additionally, M.I’s entrepreneurial ventures and brand collaborations have further boosted his net worth.
What are M.I Abaga’s notable albums?
M.I Abaga has released several successful albums throughout his career. Some of his most notable works include “Talk About It” (2008), “MI 2: The Movie” (2010), “Chairman” (2014), and “A Study On Self Worth: Yxng Dxnzl” (2018). These albums showcase his evolution as an artist and feature collaborations with other top Nigerian musicians. M.I’s versatility and unique style have earned him a loyal fan base both locally and internationally.
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