The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed
plans to organise a ceremonial send-off in honour of former Super Eagles
captain, William Troost-Ekong, after the conclusion of the 2025 Africa Cup of
Nations in Morocco.
The 2025 AFCON, which kicked off on Sunday night, will
run until January 18, 2026. The NFF disclosed that all activities celebrating
Troost-Ekong’s distinguished international career will be held after the
tournament, as attention remains firmly on Nigeria’s campaign.
Speaking exclusively to BSN Sports, NFF General
Secretary Sanusi Mohammed paid glowing tribute to the former captain,
describing him as one of Nigeria’s most dedicated servants.
“William Troost-Ekong has done remarkably well for
Nigeria and is deeply appreciated by the Nigeria Football Federation, the
National Sports Commission, the Federal Government, and indeed all Nigerians
for his immense contributions to the national team,” Sanusi said.
He stressed that the federation’s immediate priority
is ensuring a successful outing for the Super Eagles at the ongoing AFCON.
“Our focus right now is on the 2025 Africa Cup of
Nations and ensuring the Super Eagles have a successful tournament. Once the
competition is over, we will sit down and carefully plan a befitting ceremonial
send-off for the legend,” he added.
Troost-Ekong, 32, captained Nigeria to a silver medal
at the 2023 AFCON, where the Super Eagles fell 2–1 to hosts Côte d’Ivoire in
the final. Despite the defeat, the defender emerged as the tournament’s Most
Valuable Player and made history by scoring five goals—the highest tally ever
recorded by a defender at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Born to a Nigerian father and Dutch mother,
Troost-Ekong was eligible to represent both the Netherlands and Nigeria at
international level but committed his future to the Super Eagles. He made his
senior debut in June 2015, playing the full 90 minutes in an AFCON qualifying
match against Chad.
Over a decade-long international career, Troost-Ekong
earned more than 80 caps for Nigeria, becoming a defensive mainstay and a
respected leader on and off the pitch.
On December 4, 2025, the AFCON record-holding defender
officially announced his retirement from international football via social
media, drawing widespread praise from Nigerians who applauded his passion,
professionalism and unwavering commitment to the green and white.
Comments:
Leave a Reply