Nigerian rapper Jude Lemfani Abaga, popularly known as MI Abaga, has shared why he would prefer to raise his future children in Nigeria rather than in the United States.
Speaking on the Japa Diaries podcast, the rapper said Nigeria’s strong sense of family and community support makes parenting easier compared to the more individualistic lifestyle in the U.S.
“There are a lot of things appealing about home, especially because we’re already ingrained in that system and because there’s a lot of support as well. I feel it’s very difficult for parents here,” MI said.
He explained that in Nigeria, it is easier to get help from extended family members, neighbours, or friends when raising children, unlike in the U.S. where parents often have to handle everything on their own.
Although he and his wife, Eniola Mafe, currently live in the United States, MI said they still value the closeness and family bond that Nigeria offers.
“Our family over here are all professionals. Sometimes you just find your nook in Nigeria. I think we’ve sort of found a space in Nigeria, but definitely, you want your kids to have a mixture of both,” he said.
The rapper added that he would love for his future children to spend their early years in Nigeria before possibly moving abroad later in life.
MI Abaga and Eniola Mafe got married in September 2022, a few months after announcing their engagement.
Following his comments, Nigerians shared mixed reactions.
One user, @supreme_eteng, criticised MI’s view, saying, “When you move to advanced societies where such roles are prioritised on the pay chain, you begin to say Africa is better. You people like free labour. Learn to raise your children yourselves or pay professionals who are trained to do this.”
Another user, @Africanflamingo, agreed with MI, saying, “Africa and Asia are built on community values, people genuinely look out for one another. That sense of connection and collective care is something you rarely find in most Western countries.”
However, @realbabygirlchinwe disagreed, arguing that “Nigerians just enjoy allowing others shoulder their responsibilities… The reason Nigerians prefer raising kids in Nigeria is so they can freely abuse their children without being punished.”
