“It would be a wasted opportunity if I don’t use my voice” – PAOK’s Troost-Ekong opens up on foundation plans

Super Eagles vice-captain and 2023 Africa Cup of Nations Player of The Tournament, William Troost-Ekong, has unveiled his vision for his newly established foundation, as reported by Soccernet.ng.

The PAOK FC defender launched the “Troost-Ekong Foundation,” a non-profit organization aimed at empowering Nigerian and African youth through football and education to foster success, resilience, and community leadership.

While many in the Nigerian football community have been curious about the intentions behind the foundation, Troost-Ekong has shed light on its mission to create opportunities for people.

“The biggest thing for me is to create opportunity. I really want to make a mark. I think I'm blessed. I'm very lucky. And I feel it would be a wasted opportunity if I didn't use my voice now and some of the influence that I have to really do something back home,” he expressed in a conversation with Soccernet.ng Managing Editor, Lolade Adewuyi.

Expanding on his plans, Troost-Ekong, whose heritage is rooted in Ibibio, shared his ambition to establish his own sports academy to empower youths.

“I plan to eventually open up my own school and sports facilities, and these were the first things that I mentioned when I had the attention of the governor [Of Akwa Ibom State],” he elaborated.

The Nigerian football star joins the ranks of Asisat Oshoala and Odion Ighalo, who have initiated programs to empower young people.

For Nigerian international, this endeavour is a way of giving back to his state, expressing gratitude for their support.

“It really gives me a lot of energy and happiness. I really want to do something special at home and make it a long-term project, and hopefully, that can be my legacy. Not just from playing for the Super Eagles but to really thank people back at home as well for the support they have given me, and like I said I'd love to see many more leaders in different fields whether it is sports or other fields…” he added.

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Recently, an image of Troost-Ekong has surfaced, depicting his return to the field following surgery he underwent after sustaining an injury during the AFCON tournament with Nigeria.