No Rapper Should Be Compared To MI Says Phenom

Acclaimed lyricist Phenom has weighed in on the ongoing debate surrounding MI Abaga’s place in Nigerian hip hop, insisting that no rapper should be compared to the iconic figure. Phenom’s comment, made in a recent post, comes in response to a hip hop blog’s comparison between MI Abaga and fellow rapper Vector regarding their hit songs.

Phenom firmly stated that MI Abaga stands alone in the Nigerian rap scene, arguing that only his former Chocolate City label mate, Ice Prince, can be compared to him in terms of hit records. This bold statement is sure to spark further discussion, as debates about who reigns supreme in Nigerian hip hop are often heated and divisive.

MI Abaga, who debuted in 2008 with his critically acclaimed album Talk About It, has since built a legendary career, making him one of Nigeria’s greatest rappers of the 21st century. His extensive catalog of hit songs, including Action Film with Brymo, Anoti featuring Gabriel, One Naira with Waje, and Number 1 with Flavour, has solidified his status as a dominant force in the industry.

Phenom’s remarks reflect the high regard in which MI Abaga is held, not just by fans but by fellow artists. Ice Prince and Jesse Jagz, both of whom were part of the Chocolate City collective alongside MI, have also praised him as Nigeria’s greatest rapper.

As MI Abaga prepares to release a new album later in 2025, his influence on Nigerian hip hop continues to grow, with many considering him the standard by which all other rappers are measured.