Ola Aina has launched a new limited-edition football boot ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, marking a personal milestone as he continues his recovery from injury while retaining his spot in Nigeria’s provisional squad, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The Nottingham Forest defender teamed up with sustainable footwear brand Sokito to produce the custom boot, named ‘Mr Lulu’ after his nickname. The light green design draws inspiration from Nigerian culture and classic Super Eagles kits, featuring hand-drawn wings, leaves, and an outline of the African continent.
The boot includes a 100% knit tongue for enhanced comfort, with the ‘Mr Lulu’ logo printed on the insole and outer side. Its construction is largely plant-based, using eco-friendly materials such as bamboo, corn waste, castor beans, and recycled plastic.
Only 1,000 pairs of the Sokito Scudetta ‘Mr Lulu’ boots will be released, concluding an 18-month development process. They will be available online from December 5.
Aina’s off-field project comes as uncertainty persists over his availability for Nottingham Forest ahead of AFCON. The fullback has been sidelined since suffering a hamstring injury early in Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against South Africa in September.
He has missed 16 matches in all competitions and was not registered for Forest’s Premier League or Europa League squads, ruling him out of club action until the January transfer window.
Speaking before Wednesday’s Premier League clash with Wolverhampton Wanderers, Forest manager Sean Dyche confirmed that while Aina is making progress, he will not feature this year.
“Ola is getting close to fitness, but obviously can’t be with us until January,” Dyche said, noting the defender is “back on the grass” but still in a “longer-term situation.”
Even if he becomes physically ready in December, any involvement at AFCON would keep him unavailable for Forest until the new year.
Despite the club constraints, Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle named Aina in his provisional 54-man squad for the tournament, underlining his value to the Super Eagles as he works toward full fitness.
