T.I.N MAGAZINE: April 2015

Singer D'banj Full Biography,Life And News

FULL NAME: Dapo Daniel Oyebanjo

DATE OF BIRTH: born June 9, 1980

OCCUPATION: Singer-songwriter, Businessma

MARITAL STATUS: NOT MARRIED

EARLY LIFE AND BACKGROUND

D'banj was born in Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria to a military officer who commanded an artillery regiment and a church dignitary mother who hailed from Shagamu in Ogun State. Due to his father's profession he moved several times within Nigeria and later moved to England. D'banj was expected to follow his father's military career and was enrolled to the Nigerian Military School at age eleven. However, D'banj resisted the system and disenrolled from the school after three years. While at the Military school he was a member of the elite drum corp of the Nigerian Army. From the Nigerian Military School he proceeded to another military owned institution Nigerian Navy Secondary School, Ibara, Abeokuta where he completed his secondary school education.
Musical beginning

D'banj was introduced to the harmonica by his late older brother, Femi Oyebanjo, who died in a plane crash at age seventeen. With D'banj's love for music being greater than his parents' military aspirations, he struggled for his parents' approval; this can be best heard through an album track, All Da Way from his debut album.

Following the death of his 17-year-old brother, D'banj arranged all his possessions on his bed after they were brought home and just picked up his harmonica. I'd play it to remember him." Later, at university, he realized what his new skills with the instrument could bring him. "I'd go to the female hostel after lectures, and even if there was no electricity I could play there." He remembers learning Celine Dion's "My Heart Will Go On" after Titanic came out – "and that got me a lot of girls!"

Plans to continue his studies as a mechanical engineer in London were derailed when he arrived in the UK in 2001, and met Don Jazzy who was trying to make it as a songwriter and producer. D'Banj started hanging around the studio, making ends meet while working as a security guard. "It was OK, because I did nights," he says, "so I could listen to music on my headphones."

Don Jazzy told D'Banj he thought he was a star in the making, and sensing that the music scene in Nigeria was "blossoming", the pair returned to Lagos in 2004. That same year came the single "Tongolo"; the video was paid for by D'Banj's mom. His first endorsement was with an energy drink called Power Fist.
BET Interview

In April, 2011, D'banj was interviewed by BET's April Woodard. The interview, titled "Welcome to America", was a platform for D'banj to introduce himself to the American Music Industry and audience which he stated he was going to get into. In the interview, D'banj spoke on a wide range of topics including his music, artists he'd like to work with, his parents, Mo'Hits Records, his love life, and his role models: Kanye West, Usher, Jay-Z, R. Kelly, and others. The interview lasted 125 minutes, and was the avenue used to formally declare his determination to lead African music into many quarters that its yet to reach.
Music career

As a tribute to his mentor Fela, D'banj uses a fusion of Afrobeat and Afropop to bring his music to life and into the 21st century with breathless enthusiasm as well as a good dose of humour. His songs are based on his life, often hilarious but with a deeper meaning which documents the struggle of a young Nigerian trying to achieve his dreams. He performs in Yoruba, English and Pidgin English.
2005: No Long Thing

D'banj's debut album, No Long Thing, was released in 2005. It yielded several singles with Tongolo as the lead single. This proved to be his breakthrough single and a hit. It also provided his Koko Master persona, with the term, koko, taking on a variety of meanings. D'banj's debut success led to collaborations with other artists, including Dare Art Alade and Ikechukwu. D'Banj's single koko was used by the PDP (ruling political party in Nigeria) as its campaign theme for the 2007 general elections.
2006: Rundown Funk U Up

D'banj's sophomore album Rundown Funk U Up, which was released in 2006, yielded several singles including the club single, Tongolo (Remix), and the lead single Why Me?. This proved to be another hit.
2007–2008: Curriculum Vitae & The Entertainer
D'banj, as an artist of Mo' Hits Records, is also a member of its collective group, Mo' Hits Allstars (includes artists Dr SID, Wande Coal, KaySwitch, and D'Prince). He has once been spotted with one of Nigeria's most talented singers, "Smile Lasisi". The collective's debut album, Curriculum Vitae, was released in December 2007. It included hit singles, "Be Close To You", "Booty Call" and "Move Your Body", which was the lead single. D'banj was featured in Ikechukwu's 2008 hit, "Wind Am Well".

July 2008 saw the release of D'banj's third album, The Entertainer, with the singles "Gbono Feli Feli", "Kimon", "Olorun Maje" and "Entertainer".
Mo'Hits/G.O.O.D. Music

In June 2011, D'banj was signed to Kanye West's G.O.O.D Music record label as artiste. On June 9, 2011, D'banj wrote on his Twitter account, @iamdbanj, "Just like yesterday, myself and my brother did Tongolo. 7 years later, Mo'Hits signs with GOOD Music. Best Birthday gift ever. God thank you."
Mo'Hits breakup

After several months of speculation and wild rumors, ace producer, Don Jazzy confirmed via his Twitter account the breakup of Mo'Hits. After the breakup, Don Jazzy, D'Prince, Dr SID, Wande Coal started Mavin Records while D'banj founded DB Records and as expected, he signed his younger brother Kayswitch to the label alongside two producers, Jaysleek and Deevee.
2014

The forthcoming single "Bother You", inspired by the film Half of a Yellow Sun, was released on 7 April 2013, by Mi7 Records and D’banj’s label DKM.
Live performances

D'banj is a regular performer for the annual ThisDay Africa Rising Music Festival. He has performed at Femi Kuti’s new Afrikan Shrine in Ikeja, Lagos as well as the Shrine Synchro System’s regular London Night at Cargo. He performed at the Black President Concert in memory of Fela’s art and legacy at the Barbican in London, and also alongside many international artists in Nigeria like Kelly Rowland at the 1st Edition of the MTV Africa Music Awards 2008 in Abuja, Nigeria.

He was involved in one of the most anticipated events of the season ‘Koko Concert‘. This concert consisted of D’Banj, Don Jazzy, Dr SID, Wande Coal, D’Prince, new Mo Hits recruit Ikechukwu plus a few guest appearances including May7ven and comedian Tunde Ednut. The stage was set for a thrilling night – the Koko effect is definitely LIVE in London as fans of D’Banj and Mo’ Hits filled the O2 arena to capacity. As expected, the hits just kept coming and the momentum was sustained with on-stage antics from all the artists. In December, 2010, the Mo' Hits All Stars brought Koko Concert to Lagos and D'banj kept belting out energetic performances that kept the audience screaming. Colleagues like M.I, eLDee, Jesse Jagz, and Wizkid also joined up on stage. There was also a global premiere of the highly anticipated "Mr Endowed (Remix)" featuring Snoop Dogg and also a recent track "Blame It On the Money" featuring the Californian native and Big Sean.

On June 23, 2012, D'banj performed at the Hackney Weekend to celebrate the 2012 Summer Olympics, which was headlined by Jay-Z and Rihanna. He performed alongside his friend, and fellow Universal Music Group label mate, Rita Ora on 30 August 2012 at the SCALA London Live Music, Clubs and Arts Venue to celebrate the release of her debut album Ora. He also performed at the AFCON 2013 closing ceremony held in South Africa.
Endorsements

With D'banj's first album came his first endorsement from an energy drink called Power Fist.

In November 2013, D’banj resigned a multi-million Naira deal with Globacom, the company he parted ways with in 2010.
Humanitarian work

D'banj is the founder of Koko Foundation for Youth and Peace Development. He is also Nigeria's first United Nations Youth Ambassador for Peace. Dbanj is a ONE campaign ambassador, he released the song 'Cocoa Na Chocolate' in support of ONE‘s new campaign to boost investments in agriculture:‘ Do Agric, It Pays’.

Few pics of him below

Actor JOHN OKAFOR [Mr ibu] Full Biography,Life And News

PROFILE
Name: John Okafor (often called "Mr.Ibu")

Date Birth: (October 17, 1960)

Marital Status: MARRIED

Occupation: Actor,Comedian

NOTE:(T.I.N STILL WORKING ON GETTING MORE INFO ON JOHN OKAFOR'S BIOGRAPHY)

INTRODUCTION

John Okafor [Mr Ibu] Is Popular Nigerian Actor and Comedian In the Nollywoood movie industry.
Okafor is considered to be one of Nigeria’s most talented comic characters. His humorous acting is often characterised by stupidity, hilarious imbecility and a sharp disconnection from reality.
He has acted in more than 200 movies including Mr.Ibu (2004), Mr.Ibu in London (2004), Police Recruit (2003), 9 Wives (2005), Ibu in Prison (2006) and Keziah (2007).

EARLY LIFE AND BACKGROUND

John Okafor is man who had a rough background in wish himself said his family is the "Poorest" in his village in Enugu state. He said he gained his comic inspiration from his grandfather in wish has helped him a lot. He once lost a child. And was once an Hair dresser and also was once a butcher.

CAREER&LIFE

His acting career began in December 3, 1978 according to him. He said he started as a Continuity in movies in his words: "The issue is that I had never seen myself coming in front of the camera. I was initially involved in Continuity, not until the directors and producers started persuading me to come on board to act. They saw my interpretation of movie roles to be better and more original. It wasn’t as if I was running away from acting, I only wanted to specialize in my Continuity job, being behind the cameras. So at a point I started acting once in a while. I later asked myself, ‘Ibu, wetin you dey wait, go and concentrate on the thing’. So I took the advantage of the opportunity from my Producers and Directors who loved me so much."

He explains how stressful it was back then as an upcoming actor; says he has to trek from Ajao Estate to Festac Lagos state for Auditionings and rehearsals on daily basis.

He came into limelight in 2004 in one of the movies he was featured titled "MR IBU" which actually gave him the popular nick name: MR IBU because of his funny role as a father of a troublesome kid which makes fool of him always. Before then he has shown in lots of very popular movies in the 90's And since then he has remained consistent in the movie industry.

He earns Hundreds of thousand naira to participate in any movie presently.
He is also man who respects his family a lot he speaks of them and appreciates his Wife.

AWARDS&ENDORSEMENTS

BEST COMEDY DRAMA. AFRICAN MAGIC VIEWER CHOICE AWARD
He was said have to have won other awards including international awards

Entered an endorsement deal with merrybet in 2014.
And also entered an endorsement deal with Gotv in 2014.

RUMOR AND CONTROVERSIES

Ibu unclad

He was once said to have gone crazy for money in 2012; he entered a stage full of crowd almost nude for crowd's attention and money which made people questioned him a lot. See the picture below Okafor has remained a role model to many Nigerian comedians.
Checkout few of his common online photos below:

Ibu funny

Movie poster

COMPILED BY: (TMTN)- Takemetonaija.com

REFERENCES: Wikipedia.org Mjonline.com,Naijagists.com

Bishop DAVID OYEDEPO Full Biography,Life And News.

FULL NAME: David Olaniyi Oyedepo

DATE OF BIRTH: September 27, 1954

OCCUPATION: Pastor, Author, Educationist, Minister

MARITAL STATUS: Married

EARLY LIFE AND BACKGROUND

On September 27, 1954 David Olaniyi Oyedepo was born in Osogbo, Nigeria, but is a native of Omu-Aran, Kwara State, Nigeria. He was raised in a mixed religious family His father, Ibrahim, was a Muslim healer. His mother, Dorcas, was a member of the Eternal Order of the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement (C&S), a branch of the Aladura movement in Nigeria. He was raised by his grandmother in Osogbo, who introduced him to the virtues of Christian life via early morning prayers which she attended with him. She also taught him the importance of tithing.
Oyedepo was born again in 1969, through the influence of his teacher, Betty Lasher, who took special interest in him during his high school days. He studied architecture at the former Kwara State Polytechnic, now Kwara State University and worked briefly with the Federal Ministry of Housing in Ilorin before resigning to concentrate on missionary work. Oyedepo received a Ph.D. in Human Development from Honolulu University, Hawaii, United States, In 1982 he married Florence Abiola Akano (now known as Faith). They have four children together (David Jr, Isaac, Love and Joyce). David Jr and Isaac Oyedepo were ordained as Pastors in May 2007 by Kenneth Copeland. David Jr pastors the London Branch of the Church with His wife, Kemi while Isaac Oyedepo is the present Resident Pastor of Winners' Chapel International, South Africa.

Oyedepo claimed to have received a mandate from God through an 18-hour vision in May 1981, to liberate the world from all oppression of the devil through the preaching of the word of faith. This is the inaugural vision that led to the founding of the Living Faith Church World Wide (LFCWW), first called Liberation Faith Hour Ministries, in 1981. Two years later, on September 17, 1983, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, ordained David and his wife, Florence Abiola Akano (known as Faith Abiola Oyedepo) to become pastors and officially commissioned the new church. Five years later, Oyedepo was ordained as Bishop.
Living Faith Church (AKA Winners Chapel) started in Kaduna but moved to Lagos, the former capital of Nigeria in July 1989, to start a new branch of the church after Oyedepo claimed to have received instructions from God to reach out to the people of Lagos.

Oyedepo is the wealthiest preacher in Nigeria with a net worth of over USD $150 million. The church owns four private jets and several buildings around the world, including London and the United States. Oyedepo is an author and publisher who has written over 70 titles apart from periodicals. He is the Chairman/Publisher of Dominion Publishing House (DPH), a publishing arm of the ministry. DPH has over 4 million prints in circulation to date. Through Oyedepo Covenant University, Faith Academy and Kingdom Heritage Schools have been established to equip the youth for global impact. The construction of a third university named Crown University is already underway, located in Calabar, Cross Rivers, Nigeria.

CAREER AND LIFE

Bishop Oyedepo claims that in 1998 he was instructed by God to build a new base for the Commission to accommodate the increasing number of worshippers. This resulted in Bishop Oyedepo's church's acquisition of the initial 530-acre (2.1 km2) facility, known as Canaanland, which serves as the headquarters. It is the home of the 50,000-seat capacity auditorium, the 'Faith Tabernacle', which is reputed to be the largest church auditorium in the world. This was a feat also recorded by the Guinness Book of Records.

Faith Tabernacle was reported as the Worlds' Largest Church Auditorium in December 2005 Construction was completed within 12 months. Reports also claimed that this building was built debt free. This 50,000-seat edifice was dedicated on September 18, 1999 under the administration of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Canaanland is in Ota, Ogun state and is the 5,000-acre (20 km2) estate and campus, that houses The 50,000 church building, the church secretariat, the church's youth chapel, a primary school called Kingdom heritage model school, a full boarding mission secondary school called Faith Academy, with over 1,500 students and the Covenant University facilities, which accommodates over 7,000 students, fully resident in ultra-modern hostel facilities, with fully equipped faculty buildings and numerous staff housing facilities. Canaanland campus also has for profit establishments operated by the church such as a bakery, a bottled water processing plant, a petrol station, various restaurants and shopping stores, several residential houses that provide for the over 2,000 church employees, and guest houses. Four banks are also present on this Estate, three of which are branches of external commercial banks and one which is a community and micro-finance Bank and operated by the Church. The whole of Canaanland which includes a proposed 15,000 housing estate known as Canaan City had increased to 17,000 acres as at 2012.

The teachings of Oyedepo has put him in the category of what is commonly called the Word of Faith Movement. He has referred to principal exponents of the Faith Movement such as Kenneth Copeland, Gloria Copeland, the late Kenneth Hagin, E. W. Kenyon, T. L. Osborn, Smith Wigglesworth as well as renowned Nigerian preachers Enoch Adeboye and the late Benson Idahosa as mentors.
His Winners Chapel operates a Bible training programme known as Word of Faith Bible Institute for members and non-members alike to develop knowledge of Christian principles and to develop leaders and future pastors. This institute is run in major branches of the Church.

Oyedepo is the President of David Oyedepo Ministries International (DOMI). DOMI is the umbrella organisation comprising Living Faith Church World Wide (a global network of churches), World Mission Agency (WMA); the global missionary arm of the church's operations, Dominion Publishing House; the publishing arm of the church, Covenant University, and the Social Development Missions projects (made up of hospitals, maternity homes, schools, etc.
Oyedepo has criticised corruption in Africa as a whole and poor leadership in government.

CHECKOUT 40 THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT DAVID OYEDEPO

1. He was born to a Muslim father and Cherubim and Seraphim mother.
2. He is a PhD holder in Human Development from the University of Honolulu in the United States of America.
3. He has set up three universities without government assistance; Covenant University, Ota, Landmark University at Omu Aran and Crown University at Calabar.
4. Betty Lasher a missionary teacher facilitated his becoming a born-again Christian in 1969.
5. Living Faith Tabernacle, Ota, which he heads, seats 50,000. It is reported to be the largest church auditorium in the world, benchmarked in the Guinness Book of Records in 2008 and 2009.
6. He met his wife when he was 22.
7. He was born on September 27, 1954.
8. He was named in 2011 by Forbes Magazine as the richest pastor in Nigeria, worth over $150 million.
9. His middle name is Olaniyi.
10. He is a native of Omu Aran, Kwara state, but was born in Oshogbo, Osun state.
11. Five years after his ordination as a pastor, he was ordained a bishop in 1988.
12. His mentors include; Enoch Adeboye, Late Benson Idahosa, Kenneth and Gloria Copeland and Late Kenneth Hagin
13. He has four children, two boys; David Jnr and Isaac and two girls; Love and Joyce.
14. He got married in 1982.
15. His sons were ordained as pastors by Kenneth Copeland in May 2007.
16. His grandmother was a devout Anglican.
17. His clan, Odo-oro (place of wealth) and family lineage believes in hardwork.
18. Having rejected a charm his father gave him, he developed whitlow on a finger on his right hand. He wrote three exams the next day and came out with a second class division in secondary school.
19. He once challenged God to heal him of tuberculosis as a secondary school student, after his fellow mates shifted their beds away from him, and he was healed.
20. He studied Architecture at Kwara State Polytechnic, and worked briefly with the Federal Ministry of Housing in Ilorin.
21. He has written over 70 Christian, inspirational and motivational books.
22. He received a mandate from God through an 18 hour vision in May 1981.
23. Oyedepo Ministries International include; four private jets, estates, restaurants, shopping stores, bakery, processing plants, commercial properties and educational institutions etc.
24. Dominion Publishing House was established on December 5, 1992, and has over 4 million prints in circulation to date.
25. He built Faith Tabernacle within 12 months, debt free.
26. Faith Tabernacle was dedicated on September 18, 1999, under Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration.
27. He is a strong critic of corruption in Africa as a whole and poor leadership in government.
28. He is the president of World Mission Agency Incorporated (WMA), a Christian Ministry Organisation with mission stations in over 40 African nations, also in Europe, Jamaica and America.
29. His hobbies include; reading, reasoning, planning and writing.
30. His awards include; International Who is Who of Intellectuals, 13th Edition of International Biographical Centre, Cambridge, England and Inscribed in the Jerusalem 3000 Scroll #102268 among others.
31. He married Florence Abiola Akano, now Faith Abiola Oyedepo.
32. He is affectionately called ‘Papa’ by members of his congregation.
33. Bishop Oyedepo and his wife were ordained by Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the G.O of RCCG on 17th September 1983.
34. Some of his Best Selling books include; Pillars of Faith, Born to Win, Possessing your Possession amongst others.
35. His son, David Jnr pastors the London branch of the church, with his wife, Kemi.
Isaac Oyedepo is the present resident pastor of Winners’ Chapel International, South Africa.
36. His association with Pastor Enoch Adeboye dates back to the 80s.
37. He organises a yearly programme called Shiloh at Canaanland, Ota, Ogun state.
38. He first shared the gospel in March 1970.
39. He met his wife at a motor park.
40. He has empowered over 2,000 of church members.

AWARDS AND ENDORSEMENTS
Many credits to his name and ministry.

RUMORS AND SCANDALS
The popular man of God has been rumored by many to have used charms occult to make his ministry bigger.
He was banned in the U.K over fraud claims in 2014, he later debunked it.
Pastor was abused by many in during the 2015 elections as he was said to have been involved in the politics more than he should
He also was involved in a slapping mess in 2012, it was revealed the pastor slapped a member of the congregation right in the church which led to a lot of controversies.

Oyedepo And Family

Inside his church

Inside His Private jet

SOURCES: wikipedia.org,http://thenationonlineng.net,takemetonaija.com

Comedian AKPORORO Full Biography,Life And News

FULL NAME: Jephta Bowoto

DATE OF BIRTH: unknown

OCCUPATION: Comedian,Singer

MARITAL STATUS: Not Married

EARLY LIFE AND BACKGROUND

An Ilaje-born Warri Boy, Akpororo's journey to
the Comedy greatness was a long and winding
one. But it lead to his destiny. Against his wish,
situations forced him to attempt Comedy
Competition in hopes for a Career
breakthrough. So he registered for Opa
Williams' National Comedy Challenge.
He was the best from the Calabar Zone of the
Comedy Challenge. But at the National Level,
judges say he's not Nigeria's best. He didn't
win. But winning is a must for him. So he tried
his luck with AY's Open Mic Challenge. Again.
He came second best. And then, he didn't give up.

He gave AY's Open Mic another try. He gave it all he got. And this time he won. After winning. He added another thirst to his hunger for successes. He begged to perform for free at shows. Some he got. Some he didn't. After
some time, he got bookings for events. One of such bookings was when he was requested to perform at an event for a Professional Fee of N1,000 (One thousand Naira) - that’s approximately 6USD. He was paid N600 with a promise to pay the balance after the show. The organizer, up till date, is yet to pay the balance.

Akpororo persisted. He hustled so hard, dreamt so big, desired so much...until his date with destiny was arranged. It was at Basketmouth's Laff and Jam in Ikoyi. He did a joke about the testimony of a mad man in church. And at the end of his performance, he gave testimonies about how from that day on, he began getting serious, high paying, globe- trotting bookings.

CAREER AND LIFE

August 10, 2014 Akpororo recorded a Career Milestone staging his own Comedy and Music Concert, Akpororo Vs Akpororo at the Shell hall of Muson Centre, in Nigeria's Commercial Capital, Lagos. That was his first outside-okokomaiko Comedy and Music Concert. Energetic. Crazy. Ingenious. Hilarious. These are words that describe Akoporor's performances every where he goes. Performances that have earned him honors like The Comedian of the Year, Award courtesy Naija 102.7 FM.

Outside comedy. Akpororo is also a fine Gospel musician. (That doesn't have anything to do with his facial looks) His got genuine passion for singing God's Praises. He coordinates a mass choir called “Ojo Mass Choir”. He also directs a dance group and organizes an annual programme tagged ‘Ojo Mega Praise Jam’ in Okokomaiko hood in Lagos, Nigeria. Working on a soon-to-be-released album, Akpororo has recorded great singles 'Days of Elijah' and 'Thank Am o. The videos of both songs have also been released.

There's also some good actor in Akpororo. He has featured in Comedy Films like 'Head Gone' a film produced by Sound Sultan, and featuring great industry names in the persons of Alibaba, Tuface Idibia, Baba Dee, Eniola Badmos, Zack Orji, and Basorge Tariah, Jnr. His jokes portray him as some 'MAD' Comedian, but on the inside of this 'MAD' dude is an inspirational figure. When that part of him hits you. You laugh, and at the same time you get fired up. Little wonder, he presents 'No
Shaking', a motivational comedy radio programme on Naija FM's Morning Runs. Which ever way you perceive him; Mad, Funny, or Motivational, Jephthah Bowoto remains Akpororo - the Fastest Rising Comedian in Sub
Saharan Africa.

He is now getting to the level the likes of ‘I Go Dye’, Basketmouth, AY, Julius Agwu and others have attained in the industry over the years. Hardly would a comedy event hold in the country that this cute guy won’t be part of the performers. Some have described him as the new ‘I Go Dye’ because of the rawness and originality of his funny jokes.

Even though he started the comic business in 2008, the Delta State-born humour merchant has no doubt surpassed most of his colleagues that were there before him. The surprising thing about this outstanding act is the obvious transformation he has gained since he got his first breakthrough in 2010.

AWARDS AND ENDORSEMENTS
Nominated for several awards and won many

RUMORS AND SCANDALS

No scandals recorded yet

Akporo with 2face,Soundsultan and others

ON STAGE

Gospel Singer BOUQUI Full Biography, Life And News

NAME: Bukola Folayan (B.O.U.Q.U.I)

DATE OF BIRTH: [18, February]

STATUS: In A relationship

OCCUPATION: Gospel Singer/Rapper

EARLY LIFE AND BACKGROUND

She was born to a Professor of Biochemistry father and a professional teacher mother, she alongside her other five siblings grew up in an academic atmosphere of the Obafemi Awolowo University (Ile-Ife) and this has served as a big influence for her deep lyrical style and cosmopolitan outlook. Her Christian faith and strong belief in the words of God as laid out in the Holy Bible is however the factor to the formation of the Bouqui brand. An alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University and an accomplished broadcaster at EkoFM, Lagos.

CAREER AND LIFE

Bouqui started her professional career with an all girl group called G-Vibes several years ago before going solo and changing her focus and style to suit urban contemporary Nigeria and still deliver in terms of message and emotion. The album titled B.O.U.Q.U.I was her debut and the album can be referred to as a two in onepackage due to the fact that it contains a record breaking fourteen tracks and four skits, the highest by any debutant in the Nigerian music industry. Still on breaking records, her lead single “Get it started” in less than a month debuted at number one the backyard beats segment of the PJ Butter hosted World Chart Show, also another first by any home– based Nigerian artiste in the history of Nigerian music. Other tracks like “Not Ashamed”, “Major Problem”, “Mole jo”, “Vanity” and “Wanna Love U” have become household anthems. The album has won several accolades and nominations including the much coveted AMEN awards in 2007 for best female act.

B.O.U.Q.U.I left for the uk last year though she had just recently come back from the U.K TOUR where she went round 15 cities in the UNITED KINGDOM with the first single MO RI LE, off the sophomore album which is titled REDEFINITION.. REDEFINITION has 17 tracks.The tracks were mixed and mastered in the UNITED KINGDOM. The video for the leading single MO RI LE was shot and edited in the U.K and premiered on the same day the record label,BOUQUIS PLACE ENTERTAINMENT was officially launched. The album REDEFINITION was also launched on the same day as well as the OFFICIAL BOUQUI WEBSITE… all on her birthday 18th feb 2009.

BOUQUI just recently came off her tour of the United States of America,after she dropped her two the new videos 2nd and 3rd single off the redefinition album,TAKE YOU AWAY,shot in the united kingdom and OLUWA shot in Chicago. She has been on tour since august 2009 where she visited different cities from California to Dallas etc,15 states in all. She has since been to 5 states in Canada over the last 1 year. She recently began 'the Redefinition campus storm' where she tours the campuses alongside with a couple of her friends.. OAU Ife,witnessed the maiden edition where over 15000 people showed up, Babcock was not left out..with 8000 people in attendance,and uni lag had about 6000 people as well. They decided to give back to the society last year December by visiting the correctional center for women and kids with the campus storm. After all its also an institution. She is embarking on a new project which would be her television show. She is presently in the studio recording her 3rd album which is set to be A double cd, making up for last year.. 24 tracks , a couple of singles have dropped from that already and last year was a good year as she carted away several awards home and abroad including the best female act and best gospel act at the Nigerian Gospel Music Award..and Nigerian Music Video Award best mainstream video with her song Take you away. So far, 2013 has been a very fruitful year for B.O.U.Q.U.I. She staged the Love, Hope and War tour concert on the 8th of feb featuring Grammy nominee DA TRUTH, released a captivating video and now the World acclaimed Rapvangelist has been made the President of Xist Music Africa.

The video for the leading single MO RI LE was shot and edited in the UK and will premiere on the same day the record label, BOUQUIS PLACE ENTERTAINMENT is officially launched.

AWARDS AND ENDORSEMENTS

Won the best Hip Hop Artiste of the year award at the just concluded GMA 2013, Won Nigerian Gospel Music Award..and Nigerian Music Video Award best mainstream video with her song Take you away. So far In 2013. She also won AMEN awards in 2007 for best female act.
She has signed few closed gospel endorsement deal.

SCANDALS AND RUMOURS
She has managed to stay off scandals and rumours as she is a gospel singer.

COMPILED BY: (TMTN)- Takemetonaija.com

REFERENCES- Wikipedia.org, facebook.com takemetonaija.com

Singers SKUKI Full Biography,Life And News

NAMES: Tumininu Laolu-Oguniyi and Atewologun Laolu-Ogunniyi.

DATE BIRTH: they were both born in the 1980s.

STATUS: Unknown

OCCUPATION: Singers,Rappers.

BACKGROUND AND EARLY LIFE
Skuki is a Nigerian Afro hip hop duo composed of two brothers: They are also known as Vavavoom (Tumininu) and Peeshaun

The brothers were both born in the 1980s in Oyo State, Nigeria.

They attended The Staff School, University of Ibadan and The International School, University of Ibadan. The duo developed an interest in music shortly after they graduated from secondary school. [ 2 ]and shortly after that, they had to part ways as Tumininu went to study Geography at the University of Lagos while Atewo studied Law at the University of Ibadan. Their musical talent was discovered at an early age as they entertained family and friends during holidays and social gatherings. This was no surprise as their father is a renowned musician, director and producer. As a result of this, their father involved them in a nationwide awareness tour of the War Against Indiscipline (WAI) program where they performed in the presence of the then Head of State, Gen Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida and other notable Nigerians. With a newly found desire for limelight and entertainment, their father featured them in a TV commercial for Sungass in 1988; the result showed that the boys were a natural at entertaining.

Noting them to be raw talents waiting to be tapped, he involved them in Children Celebration Theatre (CCT), a TV series and a host of other short plays. These activities increased their confidence in front of the camera, added a little to their acting skills and some money into their tiny pockets. Hence, featuring in the 'Census 91' advert came easy. From the early days of recording their vocals on their elder brother's mix-tapes, which always landed them in trouble, to the first time they recorded professionally in a studio, they have honed their skills individually and together as a group. Over the years, the duo while still studying, kept their music dreams alive by coming together, composing and recording over 40 songs.

CAREER AND LIFE

The brothers reunited in 1999 in preparation to start a music career under the name "Skuki". [ 2 ] Their debut single, "Fire," stayed on the Africa Edition of the Channel O Top 10 Chart for four months and was number one for four consecutive weeks. Their singles "Stamina" featuring "MoÇheddah" and "Banger" featuring "DJ Zeez" have brought them awards and prominence.[ citation needed] Skuki has a way of building and creating vivid images from their songs, there by taking it way beyond the music and inspiring their fans every step of the way. Skuki came out with another monster hit for 2013 B.A.D an acronym for ‘BEAUTIFUL AND DIFFERENT’. SKUKI B.A.D Video which was shot in Capetown, Southafrica and premiered on MTVbase Africa spanking New and SOUNDCITY, currently enjoying massive airplay on terrestrial and international music channels and has garnered over 130,000views on YouTube under one week of its release.. currently they are out with a club and dancable track which they titled Voom- Va and features the Ibo rapper Phyno.. Voom-Va currently on most charts on radio stations across Nigeria and well played across clubs too.

Their hit songs in the Nigeria music industry includes: *."Fire" 2008 *." Banger" featuring DJ Zeez 2009 *."Stamina" featuring Mo' Cheddah 2010 *."Take You Home" 2010 *."Sho ti Gbo" 2010 *."Hallelujah" 2011 *."Shanor" 2011 *."Move It" 2012 *."Necessity" 2012 *."B.A.D" 2013 *."Voom Va" featuring Phyno 2013

AWARDS AND ENDORSEMENTS
Awards *.MOST PROMISING ACT at the Dynamix All Youths Awards. *. Next RatedAWARD at the prestigious HIP HOP WORLD AWARDS, 2010. [ 3 ] [ 4 ] [ 5 ] *.NEXT RATED AWARD again at the highly recognized students PEAK AWARDS. *.BEST NEW MUSICIAN at the CITY PEOPLE AWARDS.

RUMOURS AND SCANDALS
One of the brothers stage name Peeshaun was accused of running out a tattoo shop in agony during tattoo make up in the U.S. In 2013
The second brother was also involved in a phone sex chat scandal showing him and a girl sending sending erotic photos of themselves to eachother.

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REFERENCES- wikipedia.org, informationng.com, takemetonaija.com

Singer ORITSE FEMI Full Biography,Life And News

NAME: Oritse Femi(oritsefemi)

DATE OF BIRTH: UNKNOWN

OCCUPATION: Singer,Songwriter

EARLY LIFE AND BACKGROUND

Oritsefemi hails from Delta State. He was born and brought up in Ajegunle, Lagos. He started his music career right from his primary school days. He got my inspiration from the street because he had the opportunity to hang out with the underprivileged in the society. He is very happy today because he has been able to pick one or two things from them to compose his songs. It was not only tough but also rough. It was not really easy because of his background.

In an interview he explained about his background how yuneasy it was for him see below: "I come from a polygamous family and with so many children. My father being an engineer wanted me to follow his footsteps. My mother being a church worker also wanted me to be in the house of God. All these were a diversion for me. I never thought I would ever climb to where I am today. But I thank God that I have been able to get a good packaging from my record label, Shining Entertainment, which was a different level from the way I was before. In the past I had a lot of good music but there was nobody to project me. Now, I have got a lot of opportunities to show to the world the creativity that I possess."

LIFE AND CAREER

Also in an interview he took time to explain about his music career: See below:
"How it all started It all started when I was still in school when we used to have music clubs. Those days when we used to have get-together party, I was always performing. When they saw the talents in me, people advised me to keep practising because constant practice makes perfect. That was how I became enthusiastic about music.

The greatest opportunity I had musically was when Shaba Ranks, Keppy Ton and others came to establish a Ragga Dub School in Ajegunle. They were brought here by the late Johnny Nap. That was where Daddy Showkey, Daddy Fresh, Father U-turn, Baba Fryo and a lot of other stars had their breakthrough. I started projecting my own kind of African music called, Reality or Conscience music. It is a kind of music that touches or arouses the feeling of the people. Some people call it hip-life because it has all the elements of different brands of music including our popular highlife. So, whether I am singing about ladies, money and other issues in the society, it always arouses the consciousness of reality. The Unfadeables When I was in a group called, The Jingolist, we released two albums. It was a joint project with my colleague, Chibudo. The first album was entitled, Boys Dibinu, that is “boys are not happy”. The second album was Money Na Time and they had eight tracks each. Later I went solo and released an album, Elewon, which means “chase them”. That was when I started singing about the flopped politicians and the need to chase them away. It was released in 2007/08 during the elections and turned out to be a hit. My second solo album has just been dropped into the market entitled, Unfadeables. I was motivated to release this album because of the wickedness prevalent in the world. One of the hit tracks that is making waves on radio and TV is Mercy of the Lord. It has a remix featuring the late Da Grin, Rhymzo and also my record label chairman, Shining. We have already shot the video and it would be out any moment from now.

The Unfadeables has fourteen tracks. It is going to redefine the Oritse Femi people have been hearing about. Apart from the artistes I mentioned before, I’ve also featured in my works 2face, Pasuma Wonder, Nico Gravity, B Kleen and some other popular artistes in Nigeria. It is a thank you album to my fans who have been urging me on. The fans have been there saying that Oritse Femi cannot fade. That is why I entitled the album, Unfadeables. It is a street lingo narrating how people neglected me when I was not known."

In 2013 after leaving the music scene from a period of time Oritsefemi was back with more quality and uniqueness which has Drawn him his biggest fame and hit ever. He came back to release a singlet titled: "DOUBLE WAHALA" a A late FELLA KUTI inspired song as he says. Few weeks after the single start making a lot of waves on air; radio,internet and others before the video was released in 2014 which made it much more popular.
the song was being loved by many big Musicians in Nigeria e.g: Dbanj,Donjazzy and others...
In 2014 he made a remix of the song featuring a very big artiste in the industry Koko master DBANJ.
He has performed in many shows after releasing more songs in 2013/2014.
He also lost is father in 2014
He said in an interview that he has made upto 60Million Naira just for his stage performances in 2014.
Singer Oritse Femi's romance relationship with popular Ghanaian actress Ella Mensah was revealed in 2014 as the actress herself announced it in the media.

AWARDS AND ENDORSEMENTS
He was nominated for four awards in the Nigeria Entertainment Awards 2014.
also won award at the headies 2014

No popular endorsement deal yet

RUMORS AND CONTROVERSIES
He was linked with a scandal of disturbing ladies on social media in 2014 after his instagram account was hacked and his chats screenshots leaked

FEW PICS OF HIM:

COMPILED BY TMTN- takemetonaija.com

REFERENCES-
nigeriafilms.com vanguardngr.com takemetonaija.com

TOURISM: CHECKOUT T.I.N DETAILED TOUR TO IKOGOSI WARM SPRINGS,EKITI STATE [INTERESTING PICTURES AND VIDEO ATTACHED]

T.I.N MAGAZINE [www.takemetonaija.com] VISITED IKOGOSI WARM SPRINGS IN EKITI

NAME: IKOGOSI WARM SPRING.

LOCATION: IKGOSI EKITI, EKITI STATE NIGERIA.

ALL ABOUT IKOGOSI WARM SPRING; PICTURES, VIDEO, HISTORY

Ikogosi warm spring is located in Ekiti west Local Government area of Ekiti state Nigeria in a valley from the surrounding hills at the warm spring. The Vegetation at the spring which is highly thick forest with natural and rich vegetation that is closely maintained and protected from arbitrary deforestation. The area covered by the spring is about 31.38 and it is highly protected from erosion by tall and evergreen trees. The trees also serve as a sort of canopy under which tourists could stay during the dry season and sunny days. The undulating topography of the area and the symmetry of the surrounding hills add more to the aesthetic beauty of the spring.

Historically, there has being many version concerning the history of the spring and one of such version is that both springs (Warm and Cold) were wives of the same husband who turned to springs water in the wake of rift and rivalry between them. The hot and ill-tempered first wife believed to have turned to the popular warm spring while the cool-tempered second wife turned to cold spring water. The husband became the undulating hills that encompass the springs. It is well established that some of the Villagers still worship the springs as their deities.

Another version of the history has it that a hunter discovered the spring during his hunting expedition. After that the people of the community then discovered that the warm water is therapeutic and that it cures many diseases. That made them to start worshipping the water and it continued till 1960s when the late Nigerian educator and author Tai Solarin heard about the spring and he brought his student to the site for a tour. After the tour Tai Solarin started publicizing about the warm spring before Rev. MacGee of Baptist church arrived to build student camp near the area. It was Rev. Macgee who built a chapel which is the conference hall and the hostels which is now the camp chalets at the resort.

The scientific proof could not be wished away in favour of the traditional belief. The possible and plausible scientific explanation is that the deeper a body of water goes underground, the hotter it becomes and if by chance it is forced back to the surface through some earth fault, the temperature will be relatively high.

The Baptist mission in the early 50s established a youth and conference centre and other conveniences on a hill adjacent to the warm spring area. This started attracting different people from far and near, even foreigner started visiting the centre as nature demands. At the wake of 1978 however, the Ondo State acquired this popular tourist centre from Baptist Mission. A few infrastructures were put in place by this Mission before the resort centre was acquired from them by the State government, but after the acquisition of the centre, however, both the federal and the state government has now focused attention on how to develop the centre to a modern tourist resort.

The warm and cold spring of Ikogosi flow parallel, and meet somewhere to form a confluence, with each maintaining its thermal quality. The warm spring has a temperature of 70o c at the source and 37oc after meeting a cold spring. The meeting point of the warm and cold spring is a unique attraction to tourist. Adding to natural beauty, there is a tree and a palm growing from the same source at the meeting point area of the warm and cold springs.

IKOGOSI WARM SPRING RESORT

In the heart of Ikogosi, a small, quiet town with rich, local customs, in the Western part of Ekiti State (Ekiti Tourism Corridor), lies a warm spring which has now catapulted Ikogosi-Ekiti to national and international limelight. What is mysterious about the Ikogosi Warm Spring is the fact that, flowing side by side the warm spring, is another spring, a cold one. According to experts, it is a geological wonder to have such occurrence out of the same rock formation and this Ekiti flagship tourist destination is said to be the only one of its kind discovered anywhere in the world. The warm and cold springs of Ikogosi originate from a close proximity, come to a meeting point, and flow onward together with each spring retaining its thermal identity. It represents another uniqueness and is the first of such occurrence in the world. The warm spring has a temperature of up to 70oC at the source and 37oC after meeting the cold spring. The meeting point of the warm and cold springs is a unique attraction to tourists.

The springs sprout out and flow with a constant temperature and volume up to 150 litres/seconds from morning till night, at all seasons, all-year round. The whole environment of the spring has been deliberately left untampered with, for eco-tourism appeal while the source of the warm spring has been provided with a viewing structure for easy spotting by tourists. Strangely also, there is a tree and a palm growing from the same source at the meeting point area of the warm and cold springs. A wonderful work of Mother Nature!

Another unique quality of the Ikogosi Warm Spring is its acclaimed curative power. It is widely-believed to have some kind of therapeutic effect which relieves body aches and all sorts of ailments. A lot of tourists visiting the place take advantage of the large warm water swimming pool provided for this purpose and other recreational needs. It is also the home of the 5-star Gossy Brand Spring Water bottled by UAC of Nigeria.

THE HISTORY OF IKOGOSI

Traditionally speaking, there are many stories from the indigenes of this town regarding the origin of the warm spring. A version of the stories rests more on the traditional belief of the people that both springs (Warm and Cold) were wives of the same husband who turned to springs water in the wake of rift and rivalry between them. The hot and ill-tempered first wife believed to have turned to the popular warm spring while the cool-tempered second wife turned to cold spring water. The husband became the undulating hills that encompass the springs. It is well established that some of the Villagers still worship the springs as their deities.

The scientific proof could not be wished away in favour of the traditional belief. The possible and plausible scientific explanation is that the deeper a body of water goes underground, the hotter it becomes and if by chance it is forced back to the surface through some earth fault, the temperature will be relatively high.
The Baptist mission in the early 50s established a youth and conference centre and other conviniences on a hill adjacent to the warm spring area. This started attracting different people from far and near, even foreigner started visiting the centre to the the work of nature. At the wake of 1978 however, the Ondo State acquired this popular tourist centre from Baptist Mission. A few infrastructure were put in place by this Mission before the resort centre was acquired from them by the State government, but, after the acquisition of this centre, however, both the federal and the state government focused attention on how to develop the centre to a modern tourist resort.

There are a few legends surrounding the origin and discovery of the Warm Spring and have been passed down generations for centuries. One such myth says that the warm and cold springs were the two wives of a great hunter. One of his wives was said to be temperamental while the other was a quiet woman. One day, the two wives had a fight and after being rebuked by their husband, the temperamental wife changed to the warm spring while the quiet one turned to the cold spring.

Another legend has it that a powerful hunter, while hunting for animals in the forest, first found the warm spring. After the discovery, he went to town with the story and the townspeople on learning about curative powers of the spring, started to worship the spring.
Whatever is the true situation remains to be found out as the story of the Ikogosi Warm Spring is told elsewhere and nothing might be compared to taking a trip to this serenity place to see things for oneself.

IKOGOSI WARM SPRINGS FACTS AND DEATILS

In order to give tourists and visitors a long-lasting experience, a well-landscaped 116-hectare resort is located around the warm spring at Ikogosi-Ekiti. The resort has one (1) Executive VIP chalet, three (3) VIP villas, twelve (12) western suites, seventy-five (75) standard rooms of different styles, themes and offerings and seven support staff quarters. All accommodation facilities are currently undergoing redevelopment to turn the place to an international standard resort.

Work is in progress on developing the following facilities at the Resort:
1. 75 standard room chalets with varied styles, themes & offerings;
2. Twelve (12) suite apartments;
3. Restaurant/Bar;
4. Warm water swimming pool;
5. Nature spa / beauty centre;
6. Gym/Fitness shop;
7. Herbal shop for local medication;
8. Arts & Crafts shops for souvenir items;
9. 300-seat multi-purpose conference hall, 120-seat and 50-seat meeting & function rooms;
10. Variety/shopping mall;
11. Amphitheatre;
12. Double standard rooms for students on excursion and campers;
13. 300-car parking facility.

Other features include open green areas, brook walk lanes, waterways, relaxation spots, external area beautification, gated exclusive areas, secure general areas, etc.

The second phase development includes:
1. 150 room, branded international standard 3-star hotel
2. A heliport;
3. Cold water swimming pool;
4. An 18-hole golf course;
5. Children’s playground and amusement park;
6. Sports centre (lawn tennis courts, squash court, etc);
7. A football pitch;
8. Laundry for local and foreign attires;
9. Perimeter fencing with CCTVs, control room, security surveillance systems;
10. Administrative buildings for resort staff;
11. Water & sewage treatment plants.

The State government now seeks highly-discerning local and international investors to partner with, towards a choice destination providing quality services on a sustainable basis. A location where the whole world seeks to go.\
MORE PHOTOS BELOW

UPDATED PHOTOS 2018

Singer KOREDE BELLO Full Biography,Life And News

KOREDE BELLO PROFILE

FULL NAME: Korede Bello

DATE OF BIRTH: Born 29th of february 1996

OCCUPATION: Singer,Instrumentalist

MARITAL STATUS: NOT MARRIED

EARLY LIFE AND BACKGROUND

Korede hails from Lagos state, a student of Mass communication at the Nigerian institute of journalism. He started performing on stage at the age of seven, staged named African Prince.
Korede started music when he was younger when he listened to songs played by his parents .
His father loved the indigenous music while his mother preferred foreign music. I grew up listening to diverse music. He fell in love with music and it fell in love with him.

Ten Most Influential Rappers In Nigeria 2015

T.I.N Magazine[www.takemetonaija.com] has taken sometime to rate and list Nigeria's most influential rappers as of 2015. The listings were rated according to the level of influence each rapper has in the music industry and Nigeria as a whole. This list wasn't judged based on the fame or money a rapper has but their influence in someway or the other.
The no.1 person on the list is to be considered to be the most Influential rapper in Nigeria 2015.

FULL NAMES: Jude Abaga

DATE OF BIRTH: October 4, 1981

OCCUPATION: Rapper, singer-songwriter

MARITAL STATUS: Not Married

EARLY LIFE AND BACKGROUND

Jude was born in Jos, Plateau State. His parents, Pastor and Mrs Abaga from Takum, Taraba state, both of Nigerian descent. He attended Baptist High School, Jos where his mother purchased basic music notations and later, a 7-key mini piano which launched him into the music world.[2] Jude has two brothers, Jesse Jagz who is also in the Nigerian and African music scene, and Jason Abaga. During Jude's adolescence, he would listen to tracks from Lauryn Hill, Bob Marley, Sarah Maclachlan, Pablo Neruda, Jay-Z and DMX.[3][4] Jude's venture in the hip hop world started with the sampling of musical works from DMX and Lauryn Hill as early as 1998. After his stint at Calvin College, Michigan, USA, he delved into poetry while pursuing a career in Business and Economics.[2] There, he performed regularly at the school's major hip hop shows and concerts. His impressive rap flows and attitude gained him a third place finish at the Calvin College show tagged 'HipHopera' in 2003,[2] which was actually the only "hip hop show" that Calvin College ever had. M.I. also made some amateur attempts at comedy, but decided to stick to music because he was embarrassed when nobody laughed but him.[4]

CAREER AND LIFE

Jude began his music career when he returned to Nigeria in 2003. Finding his place in an industry dominated by the likes of Modenine, Ruggedman and Eedris Abdulkareem, he quickly commenced the production of mixtapes with his friend Djinee. This led to the critically acclaimed single "Safe", (a song which he parodied popular Nigerian songs in its lyrics) which has gathered impressive airplay by African radio and music video stations such as MTV Vibe. The track also earned him awards at the Nigerian Music Video Awards, City People, N.E.A amongst others.

The hype surrounding the release of Safe led to the critical acclaim given to his first studio album titled Let's Talk About It.[5][6] The album gathered awards such as Musician of the Year (Modemen Awards in 2008), Best Hip Hop Artist (City People Awards).[citation needed] His first mixtape was PYERIBOY. He later went on to bring out a sample mixtape, ILLEGAL MUSIC,in which he fully exploits his lyrical prowess.

Back in Jos Nigeria, he teamed up with his brother,Jesse Jagz, IcePrince, Ruby, Threadstone, Lindsay, Moses (Elbulk),E kelly to form a record label, called LOOPY records, and they perform every Sunday at an open bar, with a theme tagged Jam Session. M.I was later signed to the Chocolate City company, a renowned music label in Nigeria,[citation needed] which made him move from Jos city to the nation's capital Abuja and also influenced the beginning of his successful career in the Nigerian music industry. He has also received international recognition in South Africa from the popular Channel O music Award, MTVbase Awards and also the American BET Awards. A proficient producer, lyricist, songwriter and instrumentalist, M.I has been described by DIV[who?] as the future of African hip-hop.[citation needed] He has produced and featured on the works of artists like, Don Jazzy, Threadstone (Nigeria's first rock band[citation needed]),Kel, Djinee, Shifi (Styl Plus), Jesse Jags, Ice Prince, Ruby, Lindsey, Leony, Wizkid e.t.c. He also runs a production company, Rytchus Era Productions with his brother Jesse Abaga (Jesse Jagz). In 2013 he was appointed by Nigerian telecommunication company Glo Mobile as a brand ambassador alongside other Nigerian artistes like Omawunmi, Burna Boy etc. He was also a judge in Glo X-Factor, the Nigerian version of the reality singing show in 2013.

Tripol of Blaze-A-Mic describes M.I's flow as "easy going but packed full of punches". Similarities in styles have also been drawn to renowned rappers such as Kendrick Lamar, Kanye West, Lil Wayne and Jay-Z. Those who know M.I. well have also compared his ego with both that of Kanye West and Jay-Z
- His first album sold 30,000 copies in the first 30 minutes of release (TJoe distributions December 2008)

- Hit singles include: Safe, Crowd mentality, Teaser, Short black boy, Anoti, Fast Money Fast Cars, Number 1, Undisputed Champion, Action Film.

- His second album, MI2: The Movie, is the highest selling album[when?] on the most popular[citation needed] Nigerian musical website –

- In the week of the second album release, November 2010, MI was number 7 trending topic globally on Twitter.

M.I's role in the music industry cannot be overstated. He has been responsible for bringing out many upcoming artistes such as Wizkid, Vypa, Jesse Jagz, Ruby, Pype, Ice Prince and the latest is Brymo. He has been described by many Nigerian hip hop fans as Nigeria's 'Hip Hop Messiah'.[9] MI has done a lot to bring a Northern presence to the Nigerian music industry, he depicts the perfect example of bringing Nigeria together. His music is conscious; therefore he is a leader in many ways to the youth of Nigeria. He is the founder of Loopy Records, and he is signed to Chocolate City. M.I produces with Chocolate City, and has produced albums and songs for his labelmates. The most notable of these being in 2011 when he produced two songs off Ice Prince's album Everybody Loves Ice Prince.

There has been a little rivalry between Nigerian artists, M.I. Abaga and Kelly Hansome. This started when M.I. in his track Fast Money, Fast Cars stated, "Kelly Hansome is handsome, I’ll tell him when I see him. But if I want a man, it’d be Keke or D1". Kelly Hansome did not take kindly to these words and from there they both have gone track for track with Kelly Hansome releasing Catch Me If You Can, where he goes in on the whole Chocolate City label. In response, the Choc City camp released Nobody Test Me with a line from M.I talking directly to Kelly Hansome, saying, " Only one Kelly that I know, Kelly Rowland. Why would I diss them, give them cheap promotion. I think that they're so dry, I should give them lotion". Later, Kelly Hansome released Chocolate Boys (Chocolate City members). M.I. released a track on his 2010 album, M.I.2 named Beef. With Kelly hearing this, brought out the track Finish You Boy.

In 2009 a US-based rapper by the name Iceberg Slim released a single titled Mr International where he said the lines: "Am I better than M.I? I don't know. Am I? Matter of fact you should ask M.I". That apparently didn't sit too well with M.I, prompting him to release a single known as "Somebody Wants To Die", featuring his label mate Ice Prince on the track. Less than 48 horrs after the release of M.I’s Somebody Wants To Die IceBerg Slim released Assassination and sources quote that his Facebook status at the time of the release read "‘Somebody Wants To Die’, I’ll be responsible for the ‘Assassination’ … let the countdown begin … (I told em it would be a M.I.stake, but they didn’t listen)". There was a contest in the mind of rap fans on who happened to be the best rapper in Nigeria.[when?] M.I developed more fans than Iceberg Slim and had more hit records, while Iceberg Slim gained hearts on Nigerian rap fans in a very short and unusual period. In 2012, both rappers decided to sweep the feud under the rug. Iceberg stated, "I don't think I picked on MI. It was a healthy competition in Hip-Hop, which most people don't understand. In Hip-Hop community, we could be best friends or brothers and I can say I’m the best rapper in the world and no one takes offense or takes it personal. My shot at MI wasn't a sign of disrespect in any way. Though sarcastic, it was healthy. People just took it out of context and thought I was dissing him. Rap music is all about competition because it helps you grow and improve on yourself."

His popularity has quickly reached the youth of Nigeria as he has become one of the most critically acclaimed Nigerian artists, and has recently been compared to other artists like Naeto C, D'banj, 9ice and Mode 9. He was listed as the 4th most talented rapper in Nigeria by online music site Notjustok.com
M.I was appointed a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador in 2012.[14][15] M.I also supports the Jostified campaign.\
IN 2014 he tweeted an indirect tweet of saying he has quit music which caused lots pandemonium online and the next day he released a new song. Statement he made hasnt been justified yet because never confirmed it.
AWARDS AND ENDORSEMENTS
Awards
Best Rap Album 2009 –HipHop world Awards
Hip Hop Revelation 2009 - HipHop World Awards
Best New Act of the Year 2009 – Nigerian Entertainment Awards
Best Rap Single 2008 - HipHop World Awards
Musician of the Year– Modemen Awards 2008
Best Hip Hop- MTV Africa Music Awards 2009[17]
Best New Act- MTV Africa Music Awards 2009[17]
Best Use of Special Effects in a video-NMVA 2009
Best Mainstream Hiphop Video-NMVA 2009
Musician of the Year-The Future Awards 2010
Musician of the Year – City People 2010
Artist of the Year – National Daily 2010
Musician of the Year – Malaysian African Entertainments Awards 2010
Most Amiable Brand – Orange Wall of Fame 2010

ENDORSEMENTS

In 2012 he got an endorsement deal with, er, Chipita Nigeria Limited, a Greek consortium which produces confectioneries and baked goods which was said to be worth millions.
Signed a multimillion naira endorsement deal in 2013 and also appointed Ambassador for Energy in Lagos State by governor Fashola.

RUMORS AND SCANDALS
He is celebrity with a Scandal free reputation. He is so clean..

FEW PICS: