Nigerian rapper Jude MI Abaga has revealed a humbling experience from the early days of his career, recalling how he was sent off the red carpet at the 2008 Headies Awards to make space for Nollywood star Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde.
Nomination Overlooked
At the time, MI Abaga had been nominated for ‘Best Rap Single,’ but event staff did not recognize him upon arrival.
He explained that he and his manager were shuffled from one corner to another while photographers focused on the actress.
“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,” MI said during a recent appearance on Vbyz TV Cartel. “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.”
Award Moment That Changed Everything
Despite the red carpet setback, MI Alaga’s perseverance paid off. He eventually won the ‘Best Rap Single’ award, receiving a gold plaque from Ayo Animashaun.
“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,” he recalled.
Career Takes Off
Following that recognition, MI Abaga went on to release hit songs like ‘Safe,’ ‘Talk About It,’ and ‘Incredible Music,’ solidifying his place in the Nigerian music scene.
The rapper described the Headies moment as a pivotal point in his journey.
“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.
