MI Abaga Opens Up: How I Was Moved Aside at the 2008 Headies for Nollywood Star

Popular Nigerian rapper MI Abaga has opened up about a humbling moment from the early stages of his career, revealing how he was asked to move off the red carpet at the 2008 Headies Awards to make way for Nollywood star Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde.

At the time, MI Abaga had been nominated for Best Rap Single, but staff at the event reportedly did not recognize him. He recalled being shuffled around while photographers focused on the actress, describing the moment as a stark introduction to stardom.

“I have been grinding and no one cares about who I am,” MI said during a recent interview with Vbyz TV Cartel. “As we were walking in, Omotola 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’. We kept moving from one corner to another as Omotola took her photos. I was just looking at stardom.”

Despite the setback, MI Abaga’s determination paid off. Just two hours later, he was announced as the winner of Best Rap Single and received a gold plaque from Ayo Animashaun.

“That moment changed everything. After that plaque, everybody knew MI was in the game. Then came ‘Safe,’ ‘Talk About It,’ and ‘Incredible Music,’” he added.

The rapper credits that Headies experience as a pivotal turning point in his journey, marking the beginning of his rise to prominence in the Nigerian music scene.