Last Thursday, the Super Eagles of Nigeria secured their qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) minutes before their penultimate Group D match against Benin Republic in Abidjan. While a point from the game would have ultimately guaranteed their spot, a Libyan victory over Rwanda earlier in the day effectively handed Nigeria their pass to a 21st AFCON appearance.

For Nigeria, qualifying for the AFCON is almost a formality, but for players like captain William Troost-Ekong, each milestone carries weight as he approaches the twilight of his career in the iconic green and white jersey.

Ekong’s Pivotal Career Choice 

Born in the Netherlands to a Dutch mother and a Nigerian father, Ekong had earlier represented the Netherlands at the under-19 and under-20 levels, before making a conscious and timely switch to Nigeria aged 21 in 2015.  

“Just at the start of the season, I had played for the Dutch U19 and U20 squads, but there was no real prospect yet for the first team,” Ekong recently explained. “The choice was between trying to progress and maybe, later in my career, have a chance to play for the Netherlands or play for the Super Eagles, who were going through a transition. A lot of their defenders at that time were older, so I knew they wanted to make changes.”

Nine years and five months after making his debut on June 13, 2015, Ekong has cemented himself as one of Nigeria’s most influential players—both on and off the pitch. Assuming the captaincy on an interim basis during AFCON 2021 was particularly a pivotal moment that solidified his role as a leader and symbol of resilience within the team.

The 31-year-old defender has since then gone on to represent Nigeria at three AFCONs,  including the recently concluded 2023 edition in Côte d’Ivoire. Despite the Super Eagles’ loss to the Elephants in the final, Ekong’s campaign was nothing short of historic. His tally of five goals—the highest-scoring defender in AFCON history—was pivotal in Nigeria’s second-place finish. 

Ekong’s contributions earned him the Player of the Tournament award and a nomination for the 2024 African Player of the Year. While Ademola Lookman is widely considered the frontrunner, Ekong’s achievements make him a strong contender for the title. As a voting participant in the award selection, the veteran defender might be tempted to overlook his compatriot for himself, a decision some would deem justifiable given his illustrious run.

Ekong for Nigeria Beyond the Pitch

Ekong’s commitment to Nigeria extends beyond football. During the team’s 16-hour airport ordeal in Libya in October, his leadership and composure were on full display. These qualities, coupled with his deep embrace of Nigerian culture, have endeared him to fans.

Through his foundation, the Harlem-born defender has demonstrated his passion for community development. His initiatives focus on empowering youth through sports and education, as well as building infrastructure that supports underprivileged communities.

For some, Ekong’s legacy as a Super Eagles legend hinges on lifting a major trophy for Nigeria. While that goal remains attainable (yet, considerably elusive), his remarkable contributions to the team and his unyielding dedication leave little doubt about his place in Nigerian football history.

The question of when Troost-Ekong will hang up his boots for the Super Eagles lingers. But until that moment, his impact—both as a footballer and a Nigerian—will be worthy stories to tell for years to come.