Nigerian capital market executive and cultural figure Farooq Oreagba, popularly known as “Mr. Steeze” after his viral appearance at the Ojude Oba festival, has revealed how his devotion to Tottenham Hotspur and a disciplined fitness lifestyle helped him navigate his battle with cancer.
Speaking in an interview with Punch, Oreagba opened up on life after his diagnosis, explaining how he leaned heavily on physical activity to stay strong.
Widely admired for his composed style and presence, he said his approach to health became more intentional following the diagnosis.
“First and foremost, exercise helps, regardless of the type. Ironically, I never ran a marathon until I was diagnosed with cancer. I ran my first 42km marathon in 2017 to raise money for a cancer charity, and that’s what got me started,” he said via Punch.
The Punch report noted that Oreagba has since embraced endurance activities such as marathon running and golf, using them as tools to maintain both physical and mental strength.
He emphasised that staying fit significantly boosts one’s ability to confront serious health challenges.
“My attitude to life is that health is wealth. If you are going to fight a battle, you have to be fit. If you are healthy and have a level of fitness, it improves your chances,” Oreagba explained.
For him, the message remains clear and uncompromising. “Exercise and being healthy is all that matters.”
Beyond his personal health journey, Oreagba also spoke passionately about his long-standing support for Tottenham Hotspur, a club he has followed for over two decades.
According to the Punch, his connection to the club extends beyond fandom, as he is a season ticket holder who shares that passion with his family.
“I am a fanatical Tottenham Hotspur supporter and a season ticket holder. When I’m not around, my son goes to the games; we are hardcore, ride or die,” he declared.
He pointed out that supporting clubs like Spurs requires a different level of commitment, especially compared to teams with a history of consistent success.
“When a Spurs, Nottingham Forest, or Crystal Palace fan supports their team, it’s not because they are winning,” he said.
Drawing a link between football loyalty and personal resilience, Oreagba said that same mindset played a role in how he approached his illness.
“That kind of resilience is what keeps us, and it manifests in my battle with cancer and everything else. I don’t quit. As long as I wake up in the morning, I have a chance to win,” he noted.
Even in the face of setbacks, his loyalty, both to life and football, remains steadfast.
“If we get relegated, I’ll go down with them and come back up with them.”
