The defender was named in the Super Eagles’ 55-man preliminary squad for the upcoming African tournament scheduled in Morocco.

However, he has withdrawn from the squad after earning 83 caps for the three-time African champions since making his debut in an AFCON qualifier against Chad on June 13, 2015.

Before committing to Nigeria, he represented the Netherlands at U19, U20, and U23 levels.

"Today, I am announcing my retirement from international football. In 2015, a call from the late Stephen Keshi changed my life. A month later, the head coach gave me my first cap. His faith in me sparked a desire to follow in his footsteps," Troost-Ekong wrote in a detailed social media post.

"Every time I wore that iconic jersey and stepped onto the field, I thought back to that moment. Captaining the Super Eagles exceeded even my greatest dreams.

"Nigeria welcomed me and trusted me to lead and represent a nation of over 230 million people. From a boy born and raised in the Netherlands to becoming oyibo wall and eventually skippo is a privilege I will forever cherish.

"Having earned 83 senior caps, participated in five major tournaments, won three medals, and set some records, I have truly lived my dream."

He continued: "A bronze medal at the Rio 2016 Olympics, followed by playing at the 2018 World Cup in Russia and three remarkable AFCON tournaments with a bronze and most recently a silver medal will always be unforgettable.

"Leading Nigeria in the 2023 AFCON, scoring in the final, and being named Player of the Tournament was very special. Even now, I wish the outcome had been different.

"Becoming the highest-scoring defender in AFCON history is an honor I share with all my teammates who were part of those moments. That tournament taught me what it truly means to be Nigerian; that in hardship, we unite, hustle, fight through pain, and rise.

"I am at peace knowing that through all these achievements, I gave my all. Not only for myself but to inspire the next generation as I was inspired by the legends I admired and had the honor to stand alongside.

"It has been a pleasure to play alongside my Nigerian teammates, building something great together and watching them grow into leaders. The time has come to hand over the responsibility, the opportunity, and the captaincy.

The former Udinese and Watford star added: "As the guardian of an iconic jersey, I always understood it was on loan. Now, it’s time for the next generation to continue writing their own story.

"Born abroad, I am incredibly proud to be part of a group that proved it’s possible to return home and represent our country. None of this would have been achievable without the people around me.

"To every coach, staff member, and most importantly, my teammates past and present who have been part of my international journey, thank you!

"To the Nigerian fans, the heartbeat of Nigerian football, your support has carried me through every high and every challenge. I will stand with you as you stood with me."

Following Troost-Ekong’s unexpected retirement, coach Eric Chelle is expected to appoint a permanent captain for the three-time African champions.

Nigeria will begin their AFCON 2025 campaign in two weeks and must overcome Tanzania, Uganda, and Tunisia in their pursuit of a fourth continental title.