Jude Lemfani Abaga (born 4 October 1981 in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria) is a celebrated Nigerian rapper, songwriter, record producer, music executive, and cultural influencer. Rising to fame with his breakout single “Crowd Mentality” in 2006, MI has since become a towering figure in African hip hop and Afrobeats.

A graduate of Calvin College in Michigan, where he studied Business and Economics, MI returned to Nigeria in 2003 to pursue music. His debut studio album, Talk About It (2008), earned critical acclaim and set the tone for his dynamic career. He followed it with major releases: MI 2: The Movie (2010), The Chairman (2014), A Study on Self-Worth: Yxng Dxnzl (2018), and The Guy (2022), the latter featuring collaborations with Nas, Wande Coal, Phyno, and Olamide.

MI made history as CEO of Chocolate City from 2015 to 2019, where he nurtured talents like Blaqbonez, CKay, and Dice Ailes. In 2020, he launched his own label, Incredible Music, and continued releasing innovative work under his artistic brand.

He has garnered numerous accolades, including Best Hip-Hop Act at the MTV Africa Music Awards (2009) and a BET Awards nomination (2010). Okay Africa hails him as one of the greatest African rappers of all time.

Beyond music, MI is recognised for his philanthropic and cultural leadership. In 2012, he was appointed a UN Goodwill Ambassador, and in 2023, he served as Special Adviser to the Plateau State Governor. His efforts extend into youth empowerment, mental health advocacy, and the development of Africa’s creative industries.