Just months after Drake joined the Young Money family, followed by Bow Wow inking a deal with Cash Money, female rapper Nicki Minaj becomes the latest to sign and also become Weezy's first lady.

Yep, Nicki Minaj is official. After an intense bidding way between several record labels, the New York rapper opted to sign with Weezy's Young Money imprint, whom she's had a close relationship with since her start.

"I am honored to have Nicki Minaj as Young Money's First Lady. She is a star," Lil Wayne said in a statement.

After the release of her popular mixtapes -- Playtime is Over, Sucker Free and her third and most recent Beam Me Up Scotty -- Nicki's buzz grew, especially with a co-sign from Wayne. Her tapes have included feature guests such as Gucci Mane, Busta Rhymes, Bobby Valentino and Drake.

"To say I'm excited would be an understatement. It's validation. It's proof. It's empowerment," Nicki said of the signing. "I represent every little girl in a hood near you. To everyone that supported me two years ago when I was on underground mixtapes and DVDs and to the people that only caught on two weeks ago, I say thank you. Be proud of yourself. You've given girls all around the world the permission to change the face of female rap."

According to a press release from her camp, Nicki inked a very unique deal, where she retains and owns all of her 360 rights, including merchandising, sponsorships, endorsements, touring and publishing.

With the deal in place, her sights are set on her debut album, expected in early 2010. It will be distributed through Universal. However, further details, including its title, were not known at press time.

In the meantime, fans can catch her on the America's Most Wanted tour, which also features Young Jeezy, Soulja Boy and others.