The Nigerian football community has celebrated William Troost-Ekong. This follows his announcement on Thursday. The Super Eagles captain is retiring from international football. He closes a remarkable ten-year journey. This news comes just weeks before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Troost-Ekong debuted in 2015. The late Stephen Keshi gave him his first cap. He quickly became a highly respected figure in the squad. Reflecting on his career, he called playing for Nigeria “the greatest privilege” of his life. He rose from a late call-up to captain the team.

“Today, I am announcing my retirement from international football,” Troost-Ekong stated. “A late call from the late Stephen Keshi changed my life in 2015. One month later, the ‘Big Boss’ gave me my debut. His belief ignited my desire to follow his path.”

“Every time I wore the iconic shirt, I remembered that exact moment,” he continued. “Becoming Super Eagles captain was beyond my wildest dreams.”

He extended gratitude to his supporters, coaches, and teammates. Captaining Nigeria, he noted, is an honor he will always cherish.

“I achieved 83 senior caps,” he remarked. “I played in five major tournaments and won three medals. Breaking a few records meant I truly lived my dreams.”

Tributes Pour In for a Super Eagles Icon

His announcement prompted widespread praise across African football. Rangers striker Cyriel Dessers hailed him as a “Legend.” Ola Aina of Nottingham Forest called him “My champion!!!” Ademola Lookman recognized him as a “Leader.”

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) also acknowledged his contributions. They shared a tribute stating, “Legends remain, in their time and long after it. William Troost-Ekong. It’s been a pleasure, captain.”

This retirement news came swiftly. Just 48 hours earlier, his name was on Eric Chelle’s provisional 54-man list. This list was for the 2025 AFCON in Morocco. The tournament begins on December 21.

A Legacy of Leadership and Skill

Troost-Ekong played for the Netherlands at youth level. However, he committed his senior career to Nigeria. He earned his first cap in an AFCON qualifier against Chad. He featured at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. In 2021, he became one of the team’s leaders. He helped Nigeria secure bronze at the 2019 AFCON.

His most exceptional tournament was in Ivory Coast in 2023. There, he scored three goals. This included a powerful header in the final. Nigeria ultimately finished second to the host nation. His outstanding displays earned him the Player of the Tournament award. This is a rare honor for a centre-back.

Troost-Ekong concludes his Super Eagles career with 83 appearances. He also registered eight goals. Nigeria is in Group C for AFCON 2025. They will face Uganda, Tunisia, and Tanzania. The team will now advance without one of its most influential modern figures.