The CitySports Foundation has officially launched a major initiative aimed at transforming the lives of young footballers across Nigeria. Dubbed the 1000 Boots Project, the program seeks to provide critical support and opportunities to children from underserved communities.
A Vision for Youth Empowerment Through Sports
Announced at a press conference held at the CitySports headquarters in Lagos on Thursday, the project is a core part of the foundation's mission. Shola Opaleye, the Founder of both CitySports Africa and the CitySports Foundation, described the initiative as a transformational youth empowerment program.
He explained that it is designed to do more than just give away equipment. The project will provide high-quality football boots, coupled with leadership training and structured sports development opportunities, to help nurture talent across Africa.
Inaugural Event and Broader Mission
The project's first major event is scheduled for Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos. Organisers expect a turnout of over 2,000 participants, including children, parents, coaches, volunteers, and media.
The day will be packed with sporting activities, leadership sessions, and a community viewing of the AFCON match between Nigeria and Tanzania. Opaleye assured attendees that comprehensive arrangements for crowd control, security, and hospitality have been made.
This project aligns with the foundation's ambitious goal to empower one million African youth annually through sports and leadership. It also supports the broader CitySports Africa 2035 Vision, which aims to reach 10 million children with access to sports development, coaching, mentorship, and career pathways.
More Than Just Equipment: A Symbol of Hope
Opaleye shared the powerful inspiration behind the project, stating that a simple act can profoundly change a child's trajectory. "Every time a child receives a pair of boots, something remarkable happens — their eyes light up, their shoulders rise, and their confidence awakens," he said.
He emphasised that the boots represent much more than mere sporting gear. "A pair of boots is not just equipment; it is dignity, hope, safety, and the beginning of opportunity," Opaleye added, highlighting the project's deeper social impact.
The launch event was attended by key foundation figures, including PR and Content Strategist Jane Chiwendu and Kits Manager Daniel Oluwarotiki, who will be instrumental in the project's execution.
