The “Boots for Grassroots” campaign, an initiative by Nigerian ex international football player, Austin Popo and South Africa-based Sports Advisor, Gerrit Davids, aims to provide one million boots to children across Africa over the next decade through a series of celebrity football matches to be staged in Nigeria and other major African cities.
The matches, designed to raise awareness and support for underprivileged children who play football without proper gear, will feature popular personalities from entertainment, sports, and business sectors alike.
The “Boots for Grassroots” appeal seeks to equip aspiring young footballers with proper boots while promoting youth development, fitness, and community spirit through sport.
The initiative draws inspiration from the late football legend, Stephen Keshi’s lifelong commitment to nurturing talent at the grassroots level.
Speaking about the upcoming events, Austin Popo, Convener of the Boots for Grassroots Project, said, “football is a universal language that inspires dreams and connects communities. Through these celebrity matches, we want to use the passion for the game to make a real difference, to give children not only boots, but belief, dignity, and opportunity.”
The project’s international advisor, Gerrit Davids, stated, “A match will also be staged in London, England, on 27 September 2026, as part of the Boots for Grassroots Week, which will feature a Partnership Summit and the Boots Awards for African players having played in the English Premier League. It will mark a significant milestone in taking the ‘Boots for Grassroots’ message global.
“It’s more than just a campaign, it’s a movement that celebrates the love of football and ensures that every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to play and grow through the beautiful game.”
“Further details, including the list of participating celebrities, match dates, venues, and partner announcements, will be released in the coming weeks.”
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