NFF to Honour William Troost-Ekong After AFCON 2025
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has confirmed plans to hold a ceremonial send-off for former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong after the conclusion of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
The tournament, which began on Sunday night, will run until 18 January 2026. According to the NFF, all celebrations recognising Troost-Ekong’s contributions to Nigerian football will take place once the tournament ends.
Speaking exclusively to BSN Sports, NFF General Secretary Sanusi Mohammed praised Troost-Ekong’s service to the national team and the country.
“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 all Nigerians for his immense contributions to the national team,” Sanusi said.
He added that the federation’s immediate priority is the ongoing AFCON campaign.
“Our focus right now is on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and ensuring the Super Eagles perform well. Once the tournament is over, we will plan a befitting ceremonial send-off for the legend,” he said.
Troost-Ekong, 32, captained Nigeria to a silver medal at the 2023 AFCON, where the Super Eagles narrowly lost 2–1 to hosts Côte d’Ivoire in the final. Despite the defeat, he was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player and set a record by scoring five goals, the most ever by a defender in AFCON history.
Born to a Nigerian father and Dutch mother, Troost-Ekong could have played for either the Netherlands or Nigeria at international level. He chose Nigeria and made his Super Eagles debut in June 2015, playing the full 90 minutes in an AFCON qualifier against Chad.
Over his international career, Troost-Ekong earned more than 80 caps, becoming a key figure in Nigeria’s defence and a respected leader both on and off the pitch.
On 4 December 2025, the record-holding defender announced his retirement from international football on Instagram. His decision was widely praised by Nigerians, who celebrated his passion, commitment, and dedication to the national team.
