A new two-month programme using sport to empower vulnerable young people and strengthen communities against crime has launched across three Lagos Local Government Areas, thanks to a partnership between UK charity Clean Herts Community (CHC), the UK Home Office, TAG International, and the British High Commission in Lagos.
The programme, running from September to November 2025, will provide boxing and football coaching alongside life skills training and mentoring to young people in:
- Ajeromi– Boxing
- Ikorodu– Boxing and Football
- Ifako Ijaiye– Boxing
The initiative was officially launched at EliteBox Gym on 15 September, with training sessions now underway across the three Local Government Areas.
Local coaches will deliver regular community-based sessions designed to build confidence, develop skills, and create positive opportunities for participants.
Speaking at the launch, British Deputy High Commissioner Simon Field said:
“ The UK is proud to support this initiative alongside CHC and TAG International. This programme demonstrates how international and local partnerships can provide young Nigerians with the tools, skills, and opportunities to thrive, and build local communities that are resilient against crime”
Nikita Joshua, director of CHC, said:
“ We are excited to return to Lagos after our successful pop-up earlier this year. Sports has the power to transform lives, instil discipline, and provide young people with alternatives to crime. This programme is about showing young people that hard work, resilience, and sincerity can open up brighter futures.”
Mr Adekunle Lamikanra, Coordinator of Ikorodu Crime Prevention Partnership (CPP), said:
“This programme creates positive pathways for our young people by harnessing the power of sport. Football and boxing build resilience, instil discipline, and draws them away from the streets. Just as important are the mentoring sessions which speak directly to their minds and help them resist negative influences such as cultism and cybercrime. With continuous funding and support, programmes like this must remain a constant in our communities to safeguard our youths and to build a better future for all.”
Programme Background
Earlier in March 2025, CHC carried out its first international giveback in Lagos, where over 45 young people showcased their boxing, football, and digital skills.
That event, supported by partners including the British High Commission Lagos, EliteBox Fitness, TAG International, Cleen Foundation, and Cyber Security Education Initiative (CYSED), demonstrated the positive impact of structured youth engagement.
Building on this success, the September–November programme will extend CHC’s reach and deepen its engagement at the grassroots of Lagos communities.
The initiative is part of the wider Serious and Organised Crime (SOC) Prevent Programme, funded by the UK Home Office and implemented in Nigeria by TAG International.
