The Troost-Ekong Foundation (TEF) Fundraising Gala, a dazzling fusion of sports, entertainment, and philanthropy, unfolded at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos, raising over N47 million. The event, graced by prominent figures from the sporting world, entertainment industry, and government, including Super Eagles legends, current players, and popular celebrities, showcased the foundation’s commitment to empowering Nigerian youth. The highlight of the evening was a spirited auction, with sports memorabilia and art pieces drawing substantial bids. This remarkable display of generosity underscores the shared vision of investing in a brighter future for young Nigerians.
The centerpiece of the auction was a signed Nigeria all-stars jersey from the June 2024 international window, a coveted item that sparked a fierce bidding war, ultimately secured by NSC chairman Shehu Dikko for N27 million. Other highly sought-after items included a signed Arsenal jersey from Bukayo Saka, acquired by comedian Funny Bone for N5.4 million, and a signed Declan Rice jersey, purchased by the Atom Foundation for N10 million. These substantial contributions, alongside others for items like Anthony Joshua’s signed sparring glove and a signed art piece by Slawn, demonstrated the attendees’ commitment to supporting the foundation’s mission.
William Troost-Ekong, Super Eagles captain and founder of TEF, articulated the foundation’s vision and outlined how the funds raised would be utilized. He emphasized the foundation’s focus on empowering young Nigerians through sports, education, and skills development. Specifically, the funds will be channeled towards Camp NexGen, a pioneering program blending STEM education and sports training, and the launch of a grassroots U15 football tournament in Akwa Ibom. These initiatives aim to equip young individuals with the tools and opportunities they need to thrive.
Troost-Ekong also highlighted TEF’s previous achievements, including distributing over 15,000 notebooks to more than 50 schools in Akwa Ibom, upgrading infrastructure in orphanages, and supporting burgeoning musical talents discovered through community outreach programs. He further emphasized the success of the TEF Charity Match held earlier that day, which generated N10 million in ticket sales and attracted 15,000 online viewers. This match, featuring a constellation of football stars and entertainers, not only provided thrilling entertainment but also significantly contributed to the foundation’s fundraising efforts.
The gala also served as the platform for announcing a strategic partnership between TEF and Idaraya Otu’s Let Girls Read, Run, Grow foundation. Otu, a former Olympian representing Nigeria and now a leader in social impact initiatives across Africa, introduced Camp NexGen as a transformative program designed to empower underserved children through a unique blend of sports and STEM education. This innovative program will provide 150 children with the opportunity to build and fly drones, code video games, and develop business ideas, nurturing the next generation of engineers, entrepreneurs, and leaders.
The combined success of the fundraising gala and the charity match, generating nearly N60 million, positions the Troost-Ekong Foundation to significantly expand its impact across education, sports, and innovation. Troost-Ekong emphasized that TEF is more than just a charity; it is a movement dedicated to unlocking talent, sparking innovation, and creating pathways to success for young Nigerians. The foundation’s commitment, fueled by the generous support received, promises to make a tangible difference in the lives of many young people, paving the way for a brighter future.
