Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi is spreading holiday cheer with a heartfelt initiative in Canning Town, East London, the community where he grew up. The footballer has opened a temporary shop called "Alexpress," designed to provide free food and essentials to families in need during the festive season.
The pop-up minimart is stocked with a wide variety of food items, all neatly arranged and tagged with a price of £0. Families visiting the shop can select drinks, household staples, and even a turkey to complete their Christmas celebrations—all without spending a penny.
Speaking to the BBC, the 28-year-old Everton player explained the motivation behind his altruistic act, crediting his parents as his greatest inspiration.
“This is where I was raised for my primary school education,” Iwobi said. “Families come in, select drinks, and stuff for the house. By the end of it, there is a turkey. It’s a minimart to give out food to families that are not able to get food for Christmas. If I can help them celebrate Christmas, why not?”
Iwobi emphasized how his upbringing shaped his values. “Just seeing how my parents are—I have always seen them give back. With them as my role models, I feel like, whether in the position I am today or a lesser position, I would try my best to give back and help the less fortunate and people who are not able to eat,” he added.