Super Eagles vice-captain, William Troost-Ekong, has publicly expressed his profound gratitude and pride following the formal presentation of promised rewards from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the team's 2023 Africa Cup of Nations squad.
A Promise Fulfilled in Morocco
The long-awaited rewards, which include houses, land allocations, and national honours, were officially handed over to the players in Fes, Morocco, on Monday, December 22, 2025. This gesture fulfills the pledge made by President Tinubu after Nigeria's impressive run to the final of the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast, where they secured the silver medal.
The presentation ceremony was overseen by top officials including the Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, and the President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). The event served as a significant morale booster for Nigerian football on the eve of the 2025 AFCON tournament.
Ekong's Heartfelt Reaction and National Honour
Taking to social media to share his emotions, Troost-Ekong described the moment as deeply personal. The defender, who was voted the Player of the Tournament at the 2023 AFCON after scoring three crucial goals, received the national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR).
"I am honoured and grateful to His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for conferring on me the MFR national honour," Ekong stated. "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."
He went beyond the material rewards, reflecting on the deeper meaning of representing Nigeria. "Nigeria gave me my identity, my purpose, and the platform to live my dream through football," he expressed. "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."
Backing the Team for AFCON 2025
Despite retiring from international football before the 2025 AFCON—even after being named in a preliminary 54-man squad—Ekong reaffirmed his unwavering support for the Super Eagles. The team is set to begin their campaign in Group C against Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda.
"As promised, I’ll be supporting them all the way. I believe in this group, our nation, and what we can achieve," the former captain declared, offering his full backing as the team prepares for their opening match against the Taifa Stars of Tanzania.
The timely fulfillment of these promises is seen as a strategic move to inspire the current squad as they embark on their quest for a fourth AFCON title, demonstrating the nation's appreciation for the sacrifices and achievements of its footballing heroes.
