…Distributes 2,000 Pairs in Kaduna, with Support from Rose Project, Others

By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

Kaduna — In a bid to promote dignity, boost school attendance, and empower vulnerable children, the Shoe My Feet Foundation has distributed over 6,000 pairs of school shoes to pupils in underserved communities across Nigeria since its inception in 2022.

At its latest outreach in Kaduna State, the foundation distributed 2,000 pairs of shoes to pupils in six primary schools. The initiative, supported by The Rose Project and other partners, focused on children from low-income backgrounds, many of whom struggle to attend school due to the lack of basic items like footwear.

Speaking at a media briefing in Kaduna, the foundation’s founder, Mrs. Philomena Ibhade Nwajagu, said the initiative began modestly with just 30 pairs of shoes in 2022 and has grown steadily through the support of friends, family, and strategic partners.

“We launched the Shoe My Feet Foundation on International Women’s Day in 2022. At our first outreach, we gave out 30 pairs. That number grew to 100, and now, with the support of partners like The Rose Project, we’ve reached over 6,000 pupils in 18 schools across Nigeria,” she said.

In June 2025, the foundation distributed 2,000 school shoes to pupils in the following Kaduna schools:

U.B.E Sabon-Tasha – 310 pairs

G.B.E.S Sabon-Tasha – 334 pairs

U.B.E Primary School, Ungwan Pama – 250 pairs

Madaki Adamu Memorial Primary School – 783 pairs

L.G.E.A Barakallahu Primary School – 250 pairs

Divine Brains International School – 73 pairs

Mrs. Nwajagu emphasized that the foundation’s goal is to enhance school attendance, boost self-esteem, and promote inclusion among vulnerable children, adding that the absence of proper footwear remains a major barrier to education for many.

“Shoes may seem like a small thing, but to a child in need, they mean everything. They offer dignity and the ability to attend school. Many children are either too embarrassed to go to school without shoes or simply can’t make the long walk barefoot,” she explained.

The foundation also acknowledged the vital role of partners such as The Rose Project, individual donors, and volunteers in expanding its reach across the country.

“Thanks to their support, we can reach more communities and help more children. Every shoe we give brings us one step closer to equity, confidence, and opportunity.”

Looking ahead, the Shoe My Feet Foundation aims to provide at least 5,000 school shoes annually, with a focus on children in remote and rural areas.

“This mission goes beyond footwear. It’s about ensuring that every child walks into school proud, prepared, and unafraid to pursue their dreams,” Nwajagu said.