NIGERIA TV INFO

NFF Pays Glowing Tribute as Super Eagles Captain William Troost-Ekong Announces Retirement from International Football

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has paid glowing tribute to Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong following his announcement of immediate retirement from international football, bringing an end to a remarkable decade of patriotic service.

In a statement on Thursday, the NFF hailed Troost-Ekong as “a dedicated, selfless and humble leader”, noting that his unwavering commitment to the national team set a rare standard for professionalism, discipline, and patriotism.

Troost-Ekong, who made his Super Eagles debut in 2015, earned 83 caps and featured in five major international tournaments. He represented Nigeria at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and played in three consecutive Africa Cup of Nations tournaments—2019, 2021 and 2023—winning both silver and bronze medals for the country.

A Leader On and Off the Pitch

The NFF praised the defender’s exemplary conduct, recalling that long before he wore the captain’s armband, Troost-Ekong embodied the values of a model professional.

> “He was pleasant, disciplined and ambitious — always wearing the national colours with joy, focus and pride,”

the federation said.

Historic AFCON 2023 Performance

Troost-Ekong’s achievements at the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire were highlighted as one of the defining chapters of his international career. He delivered towering performances throughout the tournament, scoring crucial goals that propelled Nigeria to the final.

His brilliance earned him the prestigious Man of the Competition (AFCON MVP) award — making him the first Nigerian in decades to claim the continental honour.

The NFF described his AFCON heroics as a “legacy that will continue to inspire generations of Nigerian footballers.”

A Decade of Service Ends, A Legacy Remains

As Troost-Ekong draws the curtain on his international journey, tributes continue to pour in from fans, teammates, and football stakeholders, celebrating a player whose leadership and patriotism helped shape the modern Super Eagles.