Patoranking Recounts How He Hawked With His Father On The Streets Of Lagos

Nigerian dancehall singer, Patrick Nnaemeka Okorie, popularly known as Patoranking, has shared his inspiring journey from poverty to fame.

Patoranking spoke about his humble beginnings in the Ebute Metta slum in Lagos, encouraging young people to use their talents to improve their communities and Africa as a whole.

He spoke at the launch of the Timbuktoo Fintech Hub in Lagos, where he was named the UNDP Goodwill Africa Ambassador for Youth Innovation, Enterprise, and the SDGs.

The singer recalled selling goods on the streets with his father to make ends meet, emphasizing that he stayed focused on his goals despite the hardships.

Patoranking, who has worked with musicians from Uganda, Kenya, Ghana, and other countries, stressed the importance of using talents to create positive change.

He said: “I hawked on the streets of Lagos with my father. Many years ago, I used to sell on this street [Kings Way road]. It used to be a very hot spot for trading.

“Many years later, everything that I pictured I wanted to become, the man I wanted to become is who I am now.

“So when I was driving down to this place it was a little bit of a teary moment for me because I saw myself [on this road].

“That is why I have songs with artists from Uganda, Kenya, Ghana and so on. I accept to be the UNDP Goodwill Africa Ambassador for Youth Innovation, Enterprise, and the SDGs.

“Today, I am not just an artist, I am a voice for many African youths who desire to make Africa work for themselves and their communities.”

KanyiDaily recalls that Patoranking had shared a video of himself with his daughters while expressing the challenges he faces as a father of girls.