Farooq Oreagba, investment banker and cancer survivor, shares his inspiring journey of battling multiple myeloma. Dubbed "King of Steeze," Oreagba discusses how cancer changed his life perspective, his participation in the Ojude Oba Festival, and the potential of cultural events to boost Nigeria's economy.
Investment banker and Managing Director of NG Clearing Limited, Farooq Oreagba, has shared his inspiring journey of battling cancer and how it transformed his perspective on life. In a recent interview with ARISE NEWS, Oreagba opened up about his diagnosis of multiple myeloma, an incurable form of bone cancer, in February 2014.
Despite the challenging diagnosis, Oreagba has defied the odds, living with the disease for over a decade. He underwent a bone marrow transplant in August 2014 and endured eight years of intensive chemotherapy. Now in remission, Oreagba has embraced a new lease on life, focusing on family, work, and giving back to the community.
Oreagba's resilience and positive outlook have earned him the nickname "King of Steeze" among Nigerians, particularly after his appearance at the Ojude Oba Festival. His participation in the festival, donning traditional attire that showcased his tattoo-covered arms, became a talking point on social media.
The investment banker uses his experience to counsel other cancer patients, offering hope and support. He emphasizes the importance of living each day to the fullest, a philosophy reflected in one of his tattoos: "I live each day as if it were my last, so don't judge me, Carpe Diem."
Oreagba also discussed the potential of the Ojude Oba Festival and similar cultural events to boost Nigeria's tourism and economy. However, he stressed the need for government investment in infrastructure to make these opportunities viable.
Reflecting on his cancer journey, Oreagba remarked, "If I could live another 20 years, I would say being diagnosed with cancer was the best thing to ever happen to me. It changed my perspective on life."
His story serves as a powerful reminder of the human capacity for resilience and the potential for personal growth even in the face of life-threatening challenges. Oreagba's openness about his battle with cancer not only raises awareness about the disease but also offers hope to others facing similar struggles.
As he continues to balance his professional life with his role as a cancer advocate, Oreagba embodies the spirit of living life to the fullest, regardless of the obstacles one might face.
