Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for conferring on him the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) national honour.
In a statement on Tuesday, Troost-Ekong said he received the official certificate following the announcement of the award the previous night, describing the recognition as a proud moment for himself and his family.
“I am honoured and grateful to His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for conferring on me the MFR national honour,” he said.
The former Super Eagles skipper noted that Nigeria gave him his identity and the opportunity to fulfil his dreams through football, adding that wearing the national colours was always a responsibility and a privilege.
“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, a privilege, and a promise to give everything for the badge and for our people,” Troost-Ekong stated.
He also used the opportunity to wish the Super Eagles success as they begin their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign, pledging his continued support for the team.
“As our Super Eagles begin their AFCON journey today, I wish the team every success. I believe in this group, our nation, and what we can achieve,” he added.
The Saudi Arabia-based centre-back announced his retirement from international football after the team failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, just 19 days before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
