The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has paid tribute to Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong following his announcement of retirement from international football on Thursday, 4 December 2025.

In a statement reflecting on his ten-year career with Nigeria, the NFF hailed Troost-Ekong as a model professional who led the national team with dignity and responsibility since his debut in 2015.

The federation praised his dedicated, selfless, and humble leadership, noting that he consistently played with “passion, pride, purpose, and a commendable sense of duty.” Even before becoming captain, he was recognized as a respected figure within the squad.

Troost-Ekong was instrumental in three Africa Cup of Nations finals, winning silver and bronze medals while playing key roles in the 2019, 2021, and 2023 tournaments. The pinnacle of his international career came at the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire, where he helped guide the Super Eagles to the final and was named Most Valuable Player of the tournament.

He also represented Nigeria on football’s biggest stage, the FIFA World Cup, scoring crucial goals in major competitions. Over 83 caps across five major tournaments, Troost-Ekong leaves behind a legacy of professionalism and sets a high standard for the next generation of Nigerian players.

“As he retires from the international game, the Nigeria Football Federation wishes William Troost-Ekong the very best in his future endeavours and will support him, within our capacity, to achieve his goals in football,” the NFF stated.