Super Eagles players and the Confederation of African football have praised Troost-Ekong, who announced his retirement from international football on Thursday, bringing an end to a decade-long career with Nigeria just two weeks before the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The 32-year-old defender confirmed the decision in an emotional video posted on social media, ending days of speculation that followed Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic 4-3 penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo in the playoffs.
Troost-Ekong, who made his debut for Nigeria in 2015 under the late Stephen Keshi, reflected on his journey with the national team, describing it as the “greatest privilege” of his life.
“Today, I’m announcing my retirement from international football. In 2015, a late call from the late Stephen Keshi changed my life. A month later, the Big Boss gave me my debut. His belief in me ignited the desire to follow his footsteps,” he said.
Every single time I put on the iconic shirt to walk out onto the pitch, I have thought about that exact moment. Going on to captain the Super Eagles was beyond my wildest dreams.”
Expressing gratitude to fans, coaches and teammates, Troost-Ekong said wearing the Super Eagles armband was an honour he would forever cherish.
“To have achieved 83 senior caps, played in five major tournaments, three medals, and broken a few records, I really lived my dreams,” he said.
Troost-Ekong also relived the emotional high of the 2023 AFCON tournament, where he captained Nigeria to the final, scored in the decisive match, and was named Player of the Tournament.
The defender stated that he is stepping aside with peace of mind, believing he has given everything to inspire the next generation of Super Eagles stars.
