Michael Adebayo Olayinka, known globally by his stage name Ruger, has cemented his place as one of Nigeria's most distinctive and fast-rising Afro-dancehall stars. His journey from a Lagos-born youth to an international artist with a signature eyepatch is a compelling story of talent and unique branding.
Early Life and Background
Ruger was born on September 23, 1999, in Lagos State, Nigeria. As of 2025, he is 26 years old and his zodiac sign is Libra. He hails from the Yoruba tribe, with his family roots specifically traced to the Ijumu Local Government Area in Kogi State.
His father is known as Arugbo Malian, while details about his mother remain private. Ruger is the only son in his family and is reported to have sisters. His musical inclination was nurtured early, as he performed in his school band and church choir, laying the foundation for his future career.
The Meteoric Rise to Stardom
Ruger's professional breakthrough came in January 2021 when he signed with D'Prince's record label, Jonzing World. His debut single, "One Shirt," featuring fellow star Rema, was released on January 20, 2021, marking his official entry into the Nigerian music industry.
However, it was the release of his debut EP, PANDEMIC, in March 2021 that truly launched him into the spotlight. The lead single from that project, "Bounce," became a massive continental hit, soaring to number one on Apple Music charts in Nigeria and across Africa.
He followed this success with his second EP, The Second Wave, in November 2021, which featured the popular track "Dior." The song charted internationally, reaching number 15 on the UK Afrobeats Singles Chart. His 2022 single "Asiwaju" also claimed the number one spot on Nigeria's Apple Music chart.
Major Career Milestones and Independence
The year 2023 was significant for Ruger. He released his debut album, Ru the World, and was honoured with the Best New Artiste award at the Soundcity MVP Awards in February. He also collaborated with Bnxn on a joint mixtape titled RnB, whose lead single "Romeo Must Die" debuted at number 11 on the Billboard Afrobeat chart.
In a major career move, Ruger departed from Jonzing World in 2023 to establish his own independent record label, Blown Boy Entertainment, showcasing his growth as a business-minded artist.
The Man Behind the Music: Personal Life and Identity
Ruger's most recognizable trademark is his eyepatch. Contrary to some speculation, the singer is not blind. He has explained that the patch is a stylistic choice and a tribute to someone who persevered after losing an eye, symbolising resilience.
On the personal front, Ruger is currently single. He has been open about his challenges with romance, once stating in an interview that his "heart is cold" and he finds it difficult to feel emotions after a past relationship ended based on an assumption. He is a Christian and identifies as straight.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
While Ruger's exact net worth is not publicly disclosed, it is evident that his music career is lucrative. His income streams include music sales, streaming royalties, sold-out tours, endorsement deals, and performances. Following a successful European tour, he joined the ranks of Nigerian celebrities like Omah Lay and Kizz Daniel by acquiring a new mansion in 2022, a testament to his financial success.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ruger
What is Ruger's real name?
His real name is Michael Adebayo Olayinka.
What languages does he speak?
Ruger is fluent and incorporates a mix of English, Nigerian Pidgin, and Yoruba in his songs.
Is Ruger a Yoruba boy?
Yes, he is of Yoruba ethnicity from Kogi State.
Who is Rema?
Rema, born Divine Ikubor on May 1, 2000, is a fellow Nigerian superstar who featured on Ruger's debut single. He was 25 years old in 2025.
From his early days in Lagos to becoming an award-winning artist with a global fanbase, Ruger's biography is a story of distinctive talent, strategic branding, and musical evolution. With hits like "Girlfriend," "Snapchat," "Bounce," and "Dior," he continues to shape the sound of modern Afrobeats.
