In a groundbreaking move, Nigeria’s captain, William Troost-Ekong, has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first footballer to wear sustainably-made boots during an international tournament. The defender debuted custom Sokito boots for Nigeria’s opening fixture in the Africa Cup of Nations against Equatorial Guinea at the Olympic Stadium of Ebimpe.

The custom boots boast a unique design inspired by Nigeria’s landscape, incorporating the team’s iconic green colorway. The sole plate features intricate designs inspired by topography, reflecting the study of land surfaces. Notably, Troost-Ekong’s boots are crafted from sustainable materials, including bamboo, corn waste, and sugarcane.

Expressing his thoughts on the decision to wear environmentally sustainable boots, Troost-Ekong stated, “I enjoyed being part of the boot development process, and I love the vibrant design and connection to nature – a great tribute to Nigeria.”

Jake Hardy, the founder of Sokito, applauded the defender’s commitment to sustainability in football, saying, “When we heard that Will had been included in the Nigeria squad, we had to do something to celebrate the achievement. It was fantastic to see him line up in custom Sokitos.”

Troost-Ekong is among 16 professional footballers who invested in the eco-friendly boot company in 2023, aligning with the brand’s commitment to sustainability. Discussing his investment, Troost-Ekong emphasized the importance of aligning personal values with the brand’s ethos. He noted that Sokito goes beyond just designing boots, actively working to measure and offset CO2 emissions, reflecting a deeper commitment to environmental responsibility.