The 31-year-old defender shared the news on Thursday through a heartfelt statement on his X page, reflecting on his journey, achievements, and deep connection to the national team. Troost-Ekong, who earned 83 caps and played in five major tournaments, said he was stepping away “with peace,” knowing he had given everything to Nigeria.
He recalled how a life-changing phone call from the late coach Stephen Keshi in 2015 led to his debut just a month later. “Going on to captain the Super Eagles was beyond my wildest dreams,” he wrote. “From a boy born and raised in the Netherlands to the Oyibo Wall and eventually skippo—it is a privilege I will always hold close.”
Troost-Ekong highlighted his major milestones, including a bronze medal at the 2016 Rio Olympics, the 2018 FIFA World Cup, and three AFCON tournaments. His AFCON 2023 performance—where he scored in the final and won Player of the Tournament—remains a standout moment. He also became the highest-scoring defender in AFCON history.
He praised Nigeria’s diaspora players and thanked coaches, teammates, staff, and fans, whom he called “the heartbeat of Nigerian football.” He added that the Super Eagles shirt “was only borrowed,” and it is now time for the next generation to continue the legacy.
Though retiring from international duty, Troost-Ekong said this is “not a final goodbye,” promising to continue working within Nigerian communities and supporting the national team.
He leaves as one of the most influential defenders of his era and a key figure in Nigeria’s football revival over the past decade.
