Nigerian rapper and music executive, Jude Abaga, popularly known as M.I Abaga, has stated that he plans to raise his future children in Nigeria, describing the country as the best environment for nurturing young minds.

Speaking as a guest on the programme Japa Diaries, the award-winning artist said Nigeria’s strong sense of community and family support system make it ideal for raising children.

“I want to raise my kids in Nigeria. There’s something about the sense of community here that makes parenting special,” he said.

M.I explained that in Nigerian society, children benefit from being raised in a communal environment where relatives, neighbours, and friends all contribute to their development and wellbeing.

“In Nigeria, children grow up surrounded by family, neighbours, and friends who all look out for each other. That’s a kind of love money can’t buy,” he added.

The rapper contrasted this with the parenting culture in the United States, where he said families often live in isolation due to work schedules and individualistic lifestyles.

“In America, people live very individualistic lives. Parents are always working and don’t always have time for extended family. Here, we’re all connected.”

While acknowledging that living abroad can offer comfort and global exposure, M.I maintained that Nigeria provides essential life values, including empathy, resilience, and cultural identity.

He said his goal is to strike a balance between both worlds — allowing his children to grow up in Nigeria while still gaining international experience later in life.

“I think the best approach is to give kids both worlds. Let them grow up in Nigeria, learn our culture, and later go abroad for exposure and education,” he stated.

He concluded by emphasizing the importance of instilling cultural pride while preparing his children for global opportunities.

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“I want my children to have cultural pride and a global perspective. That balance will help them thrive anywhere.”

M.I Abaga’s comments come at a time when many Nigerians, particularly young professionals, are exploring emigration options in search of better living conditions — a trend popularly referred to as Japa.

His perspective offers a counter-narrative, highlighting the enduring social strengths of raising a family in Nigeria.