Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has embraced Islam after reciting the Shahadah in Doha, Qatar.

The development was reported on Wednesday by Qatari newspaper Al-Arab, which said the Nigerian defender declared his conversion after reciting the two testimonies of faith while in the Qatari capital.

A video showing Troost-Ekong reciting the Shahadah and announcing his entry into Islam has also circulated on social media. Moroccan sports publication Elbotola subsequently reported the development, citing the Qatari newspaper.

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Troost-Ekong, 33, currently plays for Qatar Stars League club Al-Ahli, having joined the side in January 2026 after leaving Saudi Arabian club Al-Kholood.

The defender has had an extensive club career, featuring in leagues across Europe and the Middle East before moving to Qatar.

He also enjoyed a prominent international career with Nigeria, earning 83 senior caps and serving as captain of the Super Eagles. He represented the country at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and several Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.

Troost-Ekong was a key figure in Nigeria’s run to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire. He scored three goals during the tournament and was named Player of the Tournament.

He announced his retirement from international football in December 2025 after a decade with the national team.

Neither Troost-Ekong nor his representatives had, as of Wednesday, publicly disclosed details about what led to his decision to embrace Islam. The reports available only confirm his recitation of the Shahadah and announcement of his conversion.

The development marks a personal milestone for the former Super Eagles captain as he continues his professional career in Qatar.

LUKMAN ABDULMALIK
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