I would also venture to say Nicki and the #1.
Rihanna has released so many albums and has had numerous chances. Even at her peak, it didn't happen. Same for Katy - this *IS* Katy's highest era, but she still didn't get the Grammy. I don't think she'll get it soon. Perhaps years later?
I picked RiRi over Nicki, because she can get a No 1 album if she just releases it at a sensible time (i.e. not just before Xmas and/or when other big releases are coming out). Nicki may get a No 1 single, but it might not be a solo hit - it might be her featuring on someone else's smash...
Katy doesn't make music catered to the Grammys or critics. Rihanna doesn't release her albums in a way that caters to the Billboard 200, by always releasing 4th quarter and during busy weeks. Nicki however, makes singles that completely cater to the Billboard 100, so logically I have to vote for her.