

During the event, Troost-Ekong shared words of encouragement with the young players, motivating them to stay focused on their football dreams. “I am very happy to be with you today,” the Super Eagles captain said. “I also hope that some other time, I will have the opportunity to train with you. I want to advise you to be committed to training, be obedient to your coaches, and work very hard. You are the future Super Eagles stars, and I look forward to seeing you rise to the top,” he said, and his speech was met with applause from the young footballers.
Natse Jemide, the star of the popular series ‘Far From Home,’ also had a special message for the boys. As the host of the meeting, Jemide presented the players with brand new football boots as a gesture of encouragement. “I thank William Troost-Ekong for joining us here,” he said. “Aside from giving you these football boots as a way of encouraging you all, I wanted you to have the opportunity to meet a star in your field. I hope his words will inspire you to work hard and become like him.”
The meeting was a significant moment for the Blessed Stars Football Academy players, as they not only received valuable advice from Troost-Ekong but also gained inspiration from two prominent figures in football and film. The Academy later posted about the event on their official Facebook page, expressing their gratitude:
“Yesterday was a remarkable day for Blessed Stars FA U-15 and U-17 as we had the honor of being invited by Natse Jemide and joined by Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong.
Our players received brand new football boots, a gesture that will greatly impact their training and performance. We were thrilled to have Captain Ekong share his invaluable wisdom, encouraging our boys to stay dedicated to their dreams.
Thank you, Natse Jemide, for your generosity, and to Captain Troost Ekong for your inspiring presence.”
Blessed Stars Academy team manager, Nsikakabasi Akpan, also expressed his excitement on Facebook, sharing his appreciation for the special occasion:
“William Troost-Ekong and ‘Far From Home’ star Natse Jemide hosted players of Blessed Stars Football Academy at the Four Points by Sheraton on Saturday night.
It was a remarkable moment for our young players to meet, interact, and get valuable career tips from Super Eagles captain Troost-Ekong, who personally engaged with each of the boys.
To crown the day, each player received a brand new football boot. Al-Khoolod of Saudi Arabia defender William Troost-Ekong also promised more sports accessories to help the young lads become great stars like him.
A very memorable day for me and everyone at Blessed Stars Football Academy.
We are BLESSED to have people like Ekong and Natse who care about the next generation 🇳🇬🦅🙌🤛💪 A special thanks to Winihin Jemide for making this event possible. Together, we’re shaping a brighter future for these talented players!”


