Patrick Nnaemeka Okorie, better known by his stage name Patoranking, is a Nigerian reggae dancehall artist who has opened up about the difficult times he had before becoming famous.
The singer reportedly spoke on Tuesday at the UNDP Goodwill Africa Ambassador for Youth Innovation, Enterprise, and the SDGs launch event in Lagos, where he accepted the position. This was reported by Naija News.
The Afrobeat musician, who was raised in the urban slum of Ebute Metta in Lagos, described how he and his father had to hawk on the streets of Lagos in order to make ends meet.
Patoranking 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 after, 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 teary moment for me because I saw myself [on this road].”
“That is why I have songs with artistes 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 artiste, I am a voice for many African youths who desire to make Africa work for themselves and their communities.”
Tough times does not only make you stronger, but you grow from those experiences.
Live with Purpose, Love with Passion. Remember to be happy
One ❤️❤️❤️
Rose Ajieh
