From the underground battle scene to mainstream domination, Nigerian rap has produced legends whose artistry has shaped the country’s music industry. These MCs didn’t just spit bars — they built movements, inspired generations, and proved that rap in Nigeria could stand shoulder-to-shoulder with any scene worldwide.
Here’s our definitive list of the Top 10 Nigerian Rappers of All Time.
1. M.I Abaga
Nickname: The Chairman
Why He’s #1:
M.I Abaga revolutionized Nigerian rap with lyrical depth, storytelling, and international-level production. His 2008 album Talk About It broke rap into the mainstream, and his battle with international hip-hop standards inspired a generation. His impact as an artist and as Chocolate City’s label head makes him the most influential Nigerian rapper ever.
2. Olamide
Nickname: Baddo Sneh
Why He’s Here:
Olamide mastered indigenous rap, rapping fluently in Yoruba while blending street slang and catchy hooks. With over 10 studio albums, countless hits, and the rise of YBNL Nation (home to Asake, Fireboy DML, and Lil Kesh), Olamide is both a rap icon and a hit-making machine.
3. Mode 9
Nickname: Lyricist on the Roll (literally)
Why He’s Here:
Before rap went fully mainstream in Nigeria, Mode 9 was the gold standard for lyricism. He dominated the Hip-Hop World Awards, winning “Lyricist on the Roll” a record seven times. His punchlines, multisyllabic rhymes, and technical skills remain unmatched for purists.
4. Vector
Nickname: Vector Tha Viper
Why He’s Here:
Vector brought Lagos street energy to refined wordplay. Known for his epic rap battle with M.I Abaga and his freestyles, he has consistently balanced lyricism and commercial appeal.
5. Phyno
Nickname: Ezege (The King)
Why He’s Here:
Phyno elevated indigenous Igbo rap to national and international levels, fusing traditional rhythms with hardcore hip-hop. His collaborations with Olamide created some of Nigeria’s most iconic rap records.
6. Naeto C
Nickname: Only MC With an MSc
Why He’s Here:
In the late 2000s, Naeto C bridged the gap between high-society swagger and street respect. His “P” slang, style, and hits like Kini Big Deal made him one of the first rappers to fully blend luxury lifestyle with Nigerian hip-hop.
7. Reminisce
Nickname: Alaga Ibile
Why He’s Here:
Reminisce brought grit, street credibility, and Yoruba rap dominance. His hardcore delivery and consistent street hits have kept him respected for over a decade.
8. Illbliss
Nickname: Oga Boss
Why He’s Here:
Illbliss was not just a rapper but also a mentor and businessman, helping shape Eastern Nigeria’s rap culture. His work in bringing up artists like Phyno adds to his legacy.
9. Ice Prince
Nickname: Zamani
Why He’s Here:
Ice Prince fused rap with catchy Afropop hooks, producing hits like Oleku, one of the most remixed songs in Nigerian music history. He brought Nigerian rap to the clubs without losing lyrical edge.
10. Eedris Abdulkareem
Nickname: Nigeria Jaga Jaga
Why He’s Here:
Before the modern rap explosion, Eedris was a fearless voice for social commentary in Nigerian music. His politically charged Jaga Jaga remains one of the most iconic protest songs in Nigeria’s history.
These rappers didn’t just make songs — they shaped Nigerian culture, inspired movements, and opened doors for new generations. Whether it’s M.I’s lyrical revolution, Olamide’s street empire, or Mode 9’s technical mastery, their influence is woven into the fabric of Nigerian music history.
