“Troost-Ekong Receives MFR Honour from President Tinubu Ahead of 2025 AFCON”

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Retired Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong, has formally received his Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) certificate from President Bola Tinubu, following the national honours awarded to members of Nigeria’s senior men’s football team.

Troost-Ekong confirmed the receipt on Tuesday via his verified 𝕏 handle, describing the recognition as a deeply emotional moment for him and his family.

“I am honoured and grateful to His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (@officialABAT), for conferring on me the MFR national honour,” he wrote.
“I have been sent the official certificate today following the announcement last night. It’s a very proud moment for me and my family to receive this recognition.”

The 32-year-old defender, one of Nigeria’s most consistent performers in recent years, captained the team during their impressive run to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. Reflecting on his journey, he stated:

“Nigeria gave me my identity, my purpose, and the platform to live my dream through football. Wearing the green and white has always been a great responsibility, privilege, and a promise to give everything for the badge and for our people.”

Troost-Ekong also pledged unwavering support for the Super Eagles as they embark on the 2025 AFCON campaign in Morocco:

“As our Super Eagles begin their AFCON journey today, I wish the team every success. As promised, I’ll be supporting them all the way. I believe in this group, our nation, and what we can achieve.”

Attached to his post, the certificate from President Tinubu formally confirmed the award, highlighting Troost-Ekong’s contribution to national pride and service. It read in part:

“In exercise of the powers vested in me under section 1(4) of the National Honours Act, I, BOLA AHMED TINUBU, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in recognition of your outstanding virtues and in appreciation of your services to our country, Nigeria, HEREBY award to you to have, and enjoy title, dignity and all the privileges of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).”

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This presentation comes shortly after the Federal Government fulfilled its promise of gifting houses to members of the Super Eagles squad that finished runners-up at the 2023 AFCON. The ceremony took place through the National Sports Commission in Fez, Morocco, on Monday, nearly two years after the tournament and just a day before Nigeria’s opening match at the 2025 AFCON.

The Super Eagles, led by Portuguese coach Jose Peseiro, lost 2-1 to hosts Côte d’Ivoire in the final of the 2023 tournament. Upon returning to Nigeria, President Tinubu honoured players and officials with national awards, including Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) and Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR), alongside house and land allocations.

Troost-Ekong concluded by reaffirming his pride in representing Nigeria, underscoring his enduring bond with the Super Eagles and the nation.