Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has expressed his excitement after being conferred with the prestigious national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Al Kholood defender shared the news on social media on Tuesday, the same day the Super Eagles began their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign with an opening fixture against Tanzania’s Taifa Stars in Fez, Morocco.
Troost-Ekong will not feature for Nigeria at the 2025 AFCON, as he announced his retirement from international football earlier this month, bringing an end to a decade-long career with the national team. The 33-year-old was among the players decorated with the Member of the Order of Nigeria honour following Nigeria’s run to the final of the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire, although the award presentation was delayed at the time.
Reacting to the honour in a post on X, Troost-Ekong described the recognition as a proud moment for himself and his family, while reflecting on what representing Nigeria and the Super Eagles has meant to his life and career.
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“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,” the former Super Eagles captain 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.
“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 took time to send his best wishes to his former teammates as they begin their AFCON campaign against Tanzania, reaffirming his full support for the squad.
“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. I am, and will always be, proud to be Nigerian.”
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