Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong has become the first footballer to wear sustainably-made football boots an international tournament.
The defender debuted customised Sokito boots for Nigeria’s opening fixture in the Africa Cup of Nations against Equatorial Guinea at the Olympic Stadium of Ebimpe.
The boots feature a unique design inspired by Nigeria’s landscape and incorporate the green colourway of the team’s iconic home and away kit. The sole plate also features an intricate design that references the lines and symbols found in topography – the study of form and features of land surfaces.
Troost-Ekong’s custom boots are notably made from sustainable materials such as bamboo, corn waste and sugarcane.
Speaking about the decision to wear environmentally sustainable boots, the defender said: “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, Sokito Founder, also commented on the defender commitment to sustainability in the beautiful game, 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.”
The Nigeria captain is one of 16 professional footballers who invested in the eco-friendly boot company in 2023, joining Dominc Bernard, John Bostock, Craig Cathcart, Tom Cleverley, Georgie Kelly, Luuk de Jong, Siem de Jong, Adrian Mariappa, Lukas Nmecha, Felix Nmecha, Marvin Sordell, Isaac Kiese Thelin, Brandon Thomas-Asante, Morten Thorsby, and David Wheeler, in doing so.
Discussing his investment in the brand, Troost-Ekong said: “When your own outlook aligns with the brand you’re investing in, it takes the partnership to another level. To have Sokito work out your emissions and come up with ways to offset your CO2 impact is quite different but it’s in line with what they are doing as a company.”
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