Joe Aribo has launched a fundraising campaign to raise £30,000 (approximately ₦54.8 million) to renovate a football pitch on Lavender Avenue as part of activities marking his 30th birthday, Bold Sports reports.
The Super Eagles midfielder, who recently became a free agent after the expiration of his contract with Southampton, announced the initiative on his official Instagram page on Wednesday, describing it as a way to give back to a community that played an important role in his journey.
The project will be carried out through the Aribo Foundation, the registered charity he established in 2024 to create opportunities for young people through sport, education and community initiatives. The foundation aims to help children and young people build confidence, develop life skills and realise their potential.
In a video announcing the campaign, Aribo said he wanted to mark the milestone birthday in a meaningful way by restoring a football pitch that holds special memories for him.
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“As many of you know, I’ll be turning 30 at the end of this month. And I want to celebrate this milestone in a meaningful way,” Aribo said.
“To honor my birthday, I’m launching a campaign to raise £30,000 for the revamp of a football pitch in Lavender Avenue.”
Describing the significance of the project, the midfielder added: “This pitch holds a special place in my heart. The kids in the community deserve a new and functional space to play. And together, we can make that happen. Join me in this mission to create a positive change.”
He also appealed for public support, stressing that every donation would contribute to achieving the fundraising target.
“Every contribution no matter how small brings us closer to our goal. Let’s come together and make a lasting impact. Thank you for your support,” he said.
The campaign comes at a transitional period in Aribo’s career after his departure from Southampton, with the midfielder now available as a free agent ahead of the 2026/27 season.
