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Farooq Oreagba, a Nigerian businessman and the managing director of NG Clearing Limited, disclosed in a recent interview that he has been battling an incurable form of bone cancer for the past decade.
His revelation came during an appearance on the Arise TV Morning Show, shortly after receiving recognition as the “King of Steeze” for his distinctive style at the 2024 Ojude Oba festival in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.
Oreagba recounted his diagnosis with bone cancer in February 2014, followed by a transplant procedure later that same year.
He underwent intensive chemotherapy for 21 days each month over eight years. “I no longer undergo chemotherapy because it caused me to gain a significant amount of weight,” he explained during the interview.
Reflecting on the impact of his diagnosis, Oreagba emphasized how it has reshaped his priorities and outlook on life. “When I was diagnosed with this incurable cancer, it completely changed my perspective.
Family became my top priority because none of us know how much time we have,” he shared. “I am grateful to have survived for 10 years and am still counting, by God’s grace.”
Despite his health challenges, Oreagba has maintained active involvement in cultural events like the Ojude Oba festival for over 15 years.
He attributed his dedication to his father’s longstanding participation in the festival since the 1960s.
Addressing the financial aspect of his treatment, Oreagba underscored the importance of his primary job as an investment banker. “My work is crucial because it enables me to afford the medications necessary for my treatment,” he stated.
Oreagba also touched on the evolution of his social circle following his diagnosis. “I held a senior executive position at the exchange in the early 2000s, which afforded me many friends.
However, since leaving the exchange and especially since my cancer diagnosis, my circle has drastically reduced,” he revealed candidly.
During the interview, Oreagba proudly displayed his tattoos, each holding significant personal meaning. One tattoo reads, “I live each day as if it were my last, so don’t judge me,” encapsulating his philosophy of seizing the present moment.
Born in July 1966 in Ijebu Ode, Nigeria, Oreagba attended Ijebu Ode Grammar School and later Kings’ College in Lagos. He pursued higher education in the United Kingdom, earning degrees in Combined Engineering Studies from Coventry University and Business and Finance from the University of East London.
