Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has reportedly embraced Islam after reciting the Shahada during a ceremony in Doha, Qatar.
The Nigerian defender, who currently plays for Al-Ahli in the Qatar Stars League, was reportedly seen declaring the two testimonies of faith in Arabic before formally accepting Islam.
Qatari newspaper Al-Arab reported the development on Wednesday, September 23, 2026. A video showing Troost-Ekong reciting the Shahada has also circulated on social media.
Troost-Ekong recites Shahada
In the footage, the 33-year-old footballer is seen pronouncing the Shahada in Arabic before announcing his acceptance of Islam.
The development has attracted attention from football fans in Nigeria and elsewhere, given Troost-Ekong’s profile as a former Super Eagles captain and long-serving international.
However, the footballer has not publicly disclosed what influenced his decision to convert. While reports and the circulating video point to his acceptance of Islam, they do not provide a confirmed explanation for the reasons behind the decision.
Troost-Ekong’s career in Europe and Qatar
Troost-Ekong spent a significant portion of his club career in Europe, representing teams including Udinese, Watford, Salernitana and PAOK.
He later moved to the Arab region before joining Al-Ahli in Qatar in January 2026.
His move to Qatar preceded the reported development, which has now become a major talking point among his supporters and followers.
Troost-Ekong’s Super Eagles career
Before bringing his international career to an end, Troost-Ekong established himself as one of Nigeria’s notable defenders of the past decade.
He made 83 appearances for the Super Eagles between 2015 and 2025, scoring eight goals during his international career.
The defender also captained Nigeria during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, where the Super Eagles reached the final.
Troost-Ekong was subsequently named Player of the Tournament for his performances during the competition.
Watch the video below:
🚨William Troost-Ekong has taken the Shahadāh and accepted Islām in Qatār. pic.twitter.com/FSg4pcsmos
— SarkinFOTO (@FotoNugget) September 23, 2026
