NFF Forced Ekong Out Of Super Eagles – Idah

Former striker Peterside Idah criticizes NFF over William Troost-Ekong’s retirement ahead of AFCON 2025.

Former Nigeria international Peterside Idah has criticized the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) over the circumstances surrounding William Troost-Ekong’s retirement from the Super Eagles. Idah suggested the central defender was forced out rather than leaving voluntarily.

Idah described the situation as “absolutely badly managed,” claiming Ekong was “sacrificed” by the federation instead of being allowed to finish his international career on a high at AFCON 2025.

“The NFF did not handle Ekong’s situation well. They should have told him to wait until after the tournament,” Idah said, adding that the decision was a result of poor leadership.

Ekopng’s retirement followed Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and a period of squad tension over unpaid bonuses. Despite his exit, Idah remains confident in the leadership of players like Wilfred Ndidi, Victor Osimhen, and Alex Iwobi.

With Ekong gone, Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 defensive lineup includes Calvin Bassey, Oluwasemilogo Ajayi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Chidozie Awaziem, Zaidu Sanusi, Igoh Ogbu, and Ryan Alebiosu. The Super Eagles will open their campaign against Tanzania on December 23, face Tunisia on December 27, and conclude the group stage versus Uganda on December 30.