Patoranking, the Nigerian reggae dancehall singer, reflected on his challenging journey to fame, sharing how he and his father sold goods on the streets of Lagos to survive.
Despite growing up in the urban slum of Ebute Metta, he remained determined and overcame obstacles to achieve his dreams.
He spoke about this while accepting the role of UNDP Goodwill Africa Ambassador for Youth Innovation, Enterprise, and the SDGs at the launch of the Timbuktoo Fintech Hub in Lagos.
Patoranking stated:
“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],”
The ‘Alubarika’ crooner urged the youths to harness their talents in developing their communities and Africa at large, advocating for a borderless Africa, which he said, aligned with “the 4ps – burning borders and building bridges – that I live by.” Patoranking added:
“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.”
