Nigeria is a story of in congruencies. Having emerged as Africa's largest economy and population, Nigeria faces rampant corruption, violence from extremist groups like Boko Haram, and ranks in the bottom third in the 2023 Global Youth Wellbeing Index. According to the Index, Nigerian youth face safety and security issues growing up, horrific holes within their educational system, and meager opportunities for employment within the formal economy.

To face these issues, Boy With a Ball Nigeria was launched in 2014 in Enugu City in Enugu State, located in the country's southeast corner. The team began by focusing on working in Enugu's Ikirike slum, recruiting young people from local churches and universities to launch Love Your City walkthroughs and work in local schools. The organization has grown rapidly, launching new teams in the village of Udi and Umulumgbe, enabling young people across the country to reach their dreams.