Nigerian hip-hop legend, Jude MI Abaga, has opened up about a defining moment from the early stage of his career, sharing how he was once removed from the red carpet at the 2008 Headies Awards to make room for Nollywood superstar Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde.
Overlooked Despite His Nomination
MI, who had been nominated for the ‘Best Rap Single’ category that year, said event personnel failed to recognize him when he arrived.
He recounted how he and his manager were pushed aside repeatedly while photographers focused on the actress.
During an interview on Vbyz TV Cartel, he narrated:
“I have been grinding and no one cares about who I am. In February 2008, I remember I was walking into the crowd with my manager, Omotola also came in with her security. The people on the red carpet didn’t even know I was nominated, so they were just like ‘Common get out of here’. So we went to stand at one other corner and because Omotola was moving from side to side to take her picture, they kept chasing us from place to place. I was just looking at stardom.”
A Night That Turned Around
Even though his red carpet experience was disappointing, MI’s dedication soon paid off. He ended up winning the ‘Best Rap Single’ award and was handed a gold plaque by Ayo Animashaun.
He recalled:
“Two hours later, I was announced as the winner for ‘Best Rap Single,’ I had an award in my hand, a gold plague from Ayo Animashaun.”
Rise to Stardom
After that milestone, MI continued his upward trajectory, releasing iconic tracks such as Safe, Talk About It, and Incredible Music, which cemented his influence in Nigerian rap.
He described the Headies victory as the moment that changed everything:
“After that gold plaque, everybody was like ‘MI is in the game.’ After that it was ‘Safe,’ ‘Talk About It’ and ‘Incredible Music,’ he said.”