President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has awarded former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
The 32-year-old defender confirmed on Tuesday that he had received his official certificate, following the announcement made the previous night. Expressing gratitude, Troost-Ekong described 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. I have received the official certificate today following the announcement last night. It’s a very proud moment for me and my family,” he said.
Troost-Ekong also expressed appreciation to Nigeria for providing him with the platform to achieve his footballing dreams. “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,” he added.
He wished the Super Eagles success as they began their AFCON journey, pledging his continued support for the national team.
The certificate, attached to Troost-Ekong’s announcement, formally conferred the title: “In exercise of the powers vested in me under section 1(4) of the National Honours Act, I, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in recognition of your outstanding virtues and in appreciation of your services to our country, Nigeria, HEREBY award to you to have, and enjoy title, dignity and all the privileges of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).”
Troost-Ekong captained Nigeria to a runner-up finish at the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire before announcing his retirement from international football.