William Troost-Ekong Foundation Boosts Akwa Ibom Grassroots Football Dev’t

The William Troost-Ekong Foundation has significantly bolstered grassroots football in Akwa Ibom State with a substantial donation of football kits, boots, and balls to numerous local academies. The initiative, aimed at fostering youth development in the sport, saw the presentation of these essential items during the weekend at the Uyo Township Stadium.

In addition to supporting young players, the Foundation also provided football kits to key administrative bodies, including the Akwa Ibom State Referees Council, the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), the Football Coaches Association, the Players Union, and various Local Football Councils. This broader donation seeks to strengthen the overall football administration and development infrastructure across the state.

Mr. Samuel Umoh, Chairman of the Akwa Ibom State Football Association, presented the items on behalf of former Super Eagles captain and Al Kholood of Saudi Arabia defender, William Troost-Ekong. Mr. Umoh emphasised Troost-Ekong’s ongoing commitment to football development in Akwa Ibom, highlighting previous programmes such as an Under-15 Boys Tournament, distribution of jerseys and boots, and support for veteran footballers. He assured attendees that further initiatives are planned.

Beneficiary academies included Pillars Investors Academy, KMK Academy, Blessed Stars Academy, Dynamic SPMD, Immortality Academy, Indomitable Strikers Academy, and NNS Jubilee Academy. Lady Idongesit Mbuk, proprietor of Indomitable Strikers Academy, expressed gratitude for the donation, describing it as a “privilege.”

Comrade Maurice Silas, Chairman of the Players Union in Akwa Ibom State, lauded Troost-Ekong’s continuous philanthropic efforts, recognising him as a role model who, having played at the highest level, consistently gives back to the community.

William Troost-Ekong, who recently concluded his international career with Nigeria on 4th December 2025, founded the William Troost-Ekong Foundation in 2024. The non-profit organisation is dedicated to empowering Nigerian and African youth through the dual pathways of football and education.