William Troost-Ekong Retires: NFF Praises “Humble Leader” As AFCON MVP Ends Illustrious Super Eagles Journey
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has extended heartfelt commendations to Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong, celebrating him as a “selfless, consistent and remarkably humble leader” after he officially bowed out of international football.
Troost-Ekong confirmed his retirement on his X (Twitter) page on Thursday, expressing gratitude to fans, teammates and coaching staff who stood by him throughout his decade-long journey with the Super Eagles. The former Olympiakos and Watford defender reflected that wearing the Nigerian colours at the FIFA World Cup and multiple AFCON tournaments ranked among the greatest honours of his professional life.
In a statement obtained by PulseNets on Friday, the NFF’s Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire, said the federation received the announcement with “deep pride and immense appreciation”, acknowledging Ekong’s unbroken commitment to the national team.
According to Olajire, “Ekong gave everything he had to the Super Eagles. He led with composure, passion and an uncommon sense of responsibility. His patriotism was never in doubt.”
He further noted that even before assuming captaincy duties, Troost-Ekong consistently displayed discipline, ambition and unwavering loyalty to the green-white-green.
“He embodied professionalism at the highest level, the kind younger players should aspire to,” the spokesperson added.
PulseNets learnt that Ekong’s standout performances at the 2019, 2021 and 2023 Africa Cup of Nations played a decisive role in Nigeria’s bronze and silver medal finishes, reinforcing his legacy as one of the continent’s finest modern-era defenders.
Olajire highlighted that “his AFCON 2023 heroics — including three decisive goals and the MVP honour — remain etched in our football history.”
He stressed that Ekong’s 83 international caps, World Cup appearances and crucial goals ensured he exits as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished defensive stalwarts of the modern era.
“He walks away fulfilled, greatly respected and forever woven into the fabric of our football story,” Olajire stated, assuring that the federation will continue to support the former captain.
“We wish him total success in the next stage of his career and he will always remain part of us,” he added.
Also Read: Nigeria vs Ghana: William Troost-Ekong, Super Eagles fail to qualify for 2022 World Cup
Troost-Ekong, who made his debut under Sunday Oliseh in 2015, rose steadily from squad member to vice-captain and eventually captain, leading the Super Eagles with admirable consistency and composure.
He retires as one of Nigeria’s most capped defenders in recent history and among the elite few to ever emerge as AFCON’s Most Valuable Player.
