‘1,000 boots project’: CitySports foundation launches programme to support youth through football

CitySports Foundation, the community development arm of CitySports Africa, has launched the “1,000 Boots Project,” an initiative aimed at providing free football boots, leadership training and sports development opportunities to underserved children, Sport360NG reports.

The inaugural edition is scheduled for December 23 at the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos, where more than 1,000 boys and girls are expected to receive boots and participate in empowerment activities.

CitySports Africa Chief Executive Officer, Shola Opaleye, said the project was created to eliminate a major barrier faced by many talented young athletes across the continent.

“You are giving a child dignity and access, and you are helping them dream,” Opaleye said. “The dream is there, but without the tools, they can’t take the next step.”

He added that although the programme is starting in Lagos, it is designed for expansion across Africa.

“This is our first edition, and we’re grateful for the partners who have supported us so far. We intend to take this across the continent,” he said.

Opaleye noted that millions of African children play football every week, often without proper footwear. He referenced the early challenges of Senegalese star Sadio Mané, who attended a football trial in torn shorts and without boots before receiving his first proper pair.

“Somewhere in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Senegal or Rwanda, there is another Mané whose destiny can change with a single pair of boots,” he said.

CitySports Africa has set an ambitious target to positively impact one million young people annually through sports, with a long-term goal of empowering 10 million youths by 2035. Opaleye said the 1,000 Boots Project is a key part of that mission, with plans to scale significantly in the coming years.

“Today it is 1,000 boots; tomorrow it may be 10,000 or 50,000. Before long, we could have distributed one million boots across Africa. This is only the beginning of a much bigger journey,” he said.

The December 23 event will also feature skill-development sessions, leadership workshops and a community AFCON viewing experience supported by TotalEnergies. More than 2,000 children, parents, youth leaders, coaches and volunteers are expected to attend.

Opaleye emphasised that participation is open to all. “There are no pre-selected slots. Just show up on the day,” he said.

He also called on private organisations, NGOs and individuals to support the initiative. “We all have something to contribute. It’s not just about funding. Some people have cameras, some have influence. Others can support with boots, food or Christmas activities,” he added.

CitySports Africa plans to move the project beyond Lagos in 2026 and transition it into a quarterly programme from 2027.