Former Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong have been formally conferred with the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Following this, Troost-Ekong has been immensely proud and grateful while describing the moment as deeply emotional for himself and his family.
This achievement is a fitting national recognition for a decade of distinguished service to Nigerian football.
The retired defender confirmed the receipt of his official national honours certificate on Tuesday, a day after the conferment ceremony.
“A Very Proud Moment for Me and My Family” – Troost-Ekong
Writing on social media, Troost-Ekong revealed that the certificate had been delivered to him following Monday’s announcement, while thanking the President for the honour.
“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.”
“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 certificate, signed by President Tinubu, formally states:
“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).”
“Nigeria Gave Me My Identity and Purpose”
The 32-year-old defender used the occasion to reflect on the profound role Nigeria has played in shaping both his career and personal identity.
“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,” he said.
Born in the Netherlands to a Nigerian father, Troost-Ekong switched international allegiance to Nigeria and went on to become one of the most respected leaders in the national team.
He was admired for his leadership, discipline, resilience, and consistency.
A Fitting Honour After Retirement
The MFR recognition comes just weeks after Troost-Ekong officially stepped away from international football, citing the need to make room for the next generation while pledging lifelong support for the national team.
It also follows the Federal Government’s fulfilment of its promise to reward members of Nigeria’s silver-winning AFCON 2023 squad, with each player and official receiving national honours and housing benefits through the National Sports Commission.
Backing the Super Eagles Ahead of AFCON 2025
After announcing his retirement from international football on 5 December 2025, Troost-Ekong threw his full and unwavering support for the Super Eagles as they embark on their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign.
“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,” he added.
He concluded with a powerful declaration of national pride:
“I am, and will always be, proud to be Nigerian.”
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A Decorated International Career
Troost-Ekong earned 83 international caps for Nigeria after making his debut on 13 June 2015 in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Chad, where he played the full 90 minutes.
Across a 10-year international career, he represented Nigeria at five major tournaments:
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2016 Rio Olympics
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2018 FIFA World Cup
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2019 Africa Cup of Nations
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2021 Africa Cup of Nations
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2023 Africa Cup of Nations
He won two bronze medals, (one at the Rio Olympics and another at AFCON 2019) and reached the pinnacle of his international career at AFCON 2023, where he captained the Super Eagles to the final.
Despite playing through injury, Troost-Ekong scored three goals, including one in the final, and was named Player of the Tournament, while also becoming the highest-scoring defender in AFCON history.
