Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has been officially awarded the Medal of the Federal Republic (MFR) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Troost-Ekong expressed her great pride and gratitude, saying this moment was very emotional for her and her family.
This achievement is a worthy national recognition for his contribution to Nigerian football over the past 10 years.
The retired defender confirmed receiving his official National Medal of Honor on Tuesday, a day after the presentation ceremony.
“A very proud moment for me and my family” – Troost Ekon
Troost-Ekong wrote on social media that the certificate was delivered to him after Monday’s announcement and thanked the president for the honor.
“I am honored and grateful to His Excellency the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (@officialABAT) for bestowing the MFR National Honor on me.”
“Following last night’s announcement, we received our official certificate today. This recognition is a very proud moment for me and my family.”
The certificate signed by President Tinubu officially states:
“In the exercise of the powers vested in me under Section 1(4) of the National Honors Act, I, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in recognition of your outstanding virtues and in gratitude for your contribution to our nation, Nigeria, hereby confer upon you the title, dignity and honor of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR), with all its privileges and privileges.”
“Nigeria has given me identity and purpose.”
The 32-year-old defender used the occasion to reflect on the profound role Nigeria has played in shaping his career and personal identity.
“Nigeria has given me identity, purpose and a platform to realize my dreams through football.”
“Wearing the green and white has always been a great responsibility, a privilege and a badge and a promise to give everything for our people,” he said.
Born in the Netherlands to a Nigerian father, Troost-Ekong switched his international allegiance to Nigeria and became one of the national team’s most respected leaders.
His leadership, discipline, resilience and consistency were praised.
A worthy honor after retirement
The MFR recognition comes just weeks after Troost-Ekong officially stepped away from international football, citing the need to make space for the next generation while pledging lifelong support for the national team.
This also comes in fulfillment of the Federal Government’s promise to reward members of the Nigerian national team who win silver medals at AFCON 2023, with each athlete and official receiving national honors and housing allowances through the National Sports Commission.
Supporting Super Eagles for AFCON 2025
After announcing his retirement from international football on 5 December 2025, Troost-Ekong has given his full and unwavering support to the Super Eagles as they embark on their 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign.
“As our Super Eagles begin their AFCON journey today, I wish them every success. As promised, I will give them my full support. I believe in this group, our country and what we can achieve,” he added.
He concluded with a powerful declaration of national pride.
“I am and always will be proud to be a Nigerian.”
Read more: Super Eagles captain Troost Ekong retires from international football
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A brilliant international career
Troost-Ekong has won 83 caps for Nigeria since making his debut on 13 June 2015 in an African Cup of Nations qualifier against Chad, playing the full 90 minutes.
During his 10-year international career, he represented Nigeria in five major tournaments.
2016 Rio Olympics
2018 FIFA World Cup
2019 Africa Cup of Nations
2021 Africa Cup of Nations
2023 Africa Cup of Nations
He won two bronze medals (one at the Rio Olympics and one 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 an injury, Troost-Ekong scored three goals, including one in the final, and was named Player of the Tournament, becoming the highest-scoring defender in AFCON history.
