Retired Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong, has officially received his Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) certificate from President Bola Tinubu, following the national honours conferred on members of Nigeria’s senior men’s football team.
News reports that Troost-Ekong confirmed the receipt of the certificate on Tuesday via his verified 𝕏 handle, describing the recognition as a deeply emotional and proud moment for him and his family.
Expressing gratitude to the President, the former Eagles skipper said the honour meant more than just a personal achievement.
“I am honoured and grateful to His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (@officialABAT), for conferring on me the MFR national honour,” he wrote.
“I have been sent the official certificate today following the announcement last night. It’s a very proud moment for me and my family to receive this recognition.”
The 32-year-old defender has been one of Nigeria’s most consistent performers in recent years and captained the team during their impressive run to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Troost-Ekong also reflected on his journey with the national team, noting that Nigeria played a defining role in shaping his career and purpose.
“Nigeria gave me my identity, my purpose, and the platform to live my dream through football,” he stated.
“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.”
Reports that the former captain went further to pledge his unwavering support for the Super Eagles as they begin their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign in Morocco.
“As our Super Eagles begin their AFCON journey today, I wish the team every success,” he said.
“As promised, I’ll be supporting them all the way. I believe in this group, our nation and what we can achieve.”
In the certificate attached to his post, President Tinubu formally confirmed the award, citing Troost-Ekong’s contributions to national pride and service.
It read in part: “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).”
News reports that this comes shortly after the Federal Government fulfilled its promise of gifting houses to members of the Super Eagles squad that finished runners-up at the 2023 AFCON.
The presentation was carried out through the National Sports Commission in Fez, Morocco, on Monday, nearly two years after the tournament and just a day before Nigeria’s opening match at the 2025 AFCON.
The Super Eagles, led by Portuguese coach Jose Peseiro, finished second at the continental showpiece played between January and February 2024, losing 2-1 to hosts Côte d’Ivoire in the final.
Upon their return to Nigeria, President Tinubu honoured players and officials with national awards, including Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) and Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR), alongside house and land allocations for players and backroom staff.
Troost-Ekong concluded his statement with a reaffirmation of national pride, underscoring his enduring bond with Nigeria and the Super Eagles.
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