Nigerian rapper Phenom has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding MI Abaga’s legacy, asserting that no other rapper in the country should be compared to him. Taking to social media, Phenom emphasized MI's unparalleled influence on the Nigerian hip-hop scene, describing him as a foundational figure whose contributions remain unmatched.
His statement came in response to a discussion sparked by a hip-hop blog that compared MI Abaga and Vector based on their hit records. While acknowledging Vector's success, Phenom argued that the only artist who could be placed in a similar conversation with MI is Ice Prince, a fellow rapper and former Chocolate City label mate known for his mainstream impact.
MI Abaga, who burst onto the scene with his 2008 debut album Talk About It, has enjoyed a career spanning nearly two decades. He has delivered numerous acclaimed hits, including Action Film featuring Brymo, Anoti with Gabriel, One Naira featuring Waje, and Number 1 with Flavour. His influence extends beyond music, as he has played a key role in mentoring and elevating other hip-hop artists in Nigeria.
Phenom's remarks reflect the deep respect MI commands within the music industry. Many artists, including Ice Prince and Jesse Jagz, have also credited him for shaping the modern Nigerian hip-hop landscape. As MI Abaga gears up for his next album, set for release in 2025, fans eagerly anticipate what he will bring to the table, reinforcing his legacy as one of Nigeria’s most influential rappers.