The Nigeria Football Federation has paid tribute to Super Eagles captain William Troost Ekong after he announced his immediate retirement from international football.
In a statement issued on Friday, the federation praised the defender for his commitment and leadership throughout his ten years with the national team.
The NFF said, “After a dispassionate evaluation of his 10-year stewardship with the Senior National Team, the Nigeria Football Federation wishes to eulogise William Troost Ekong following his announcement of immediate retirement from international football on Thursday, 4 December 2025.”
The federation described him as a disciplined and humble player who always showed strong commitment to the national colours.
It said, “Captain Troost Ekong was a dedicated, selfless and humble leader of the Super Eagles for so many years. He served with gusto, zeal and patriotic fervour, and he bestrode the pitch with passion, pride, purpose and a commendable sense of duty.”
The NFF noted that even before he became captain, Troost Ekong stood out for his discipline and ambition whenever he played for Nigeria.
The body also highlighted his key roles at the 2019, 2021 and 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. He won both silver and bronze medals and also represented the country at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
According to the federation, “With 83 caps for his motherland across five competitions, he leaves the stage a fulfilled man who can reflect on his decade-long stewardship with pride and accomplishment.”
Troost Ekong received major praise for his display at the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire, where he scored three important goals and was named the Man of the Competition.
The NFF wished him success in his future plans, adding that it would continue to support him as he moves into the next phase of his career.
