Beşiktaş midfielder Wilfred Ndidi has been confirmed as the new captain of the Super Eagles, describing the role as a huge responsibility he is eager to embrace alongside his teammates ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
Ndidi has already worn the armband in recent fixtures, captaining Nigeria in World Cup playoff matches against Gabon and DR Congo, as well as during the World Cup qualifiers against Benin Republic.
The international retirements of William Troost-Ekong and, more recently, Ahmed Musa have now paved the way for Ndidi to assume full responsibility as the team’s captain. The midfielder believes the transition will be smooth with the collective support of the squad.
“It’s a huge responsibility and with the help of the players, I think everything will go smoothly,” Ndidi said.
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He stressed the importance of unity and leadership within the group as preparations continue for AFCON.
“I’ve had conversations with a couple of players, some of the older players, trying to make them understand the reason why we are here. I also need the support from the staff, we are all in this together. We’ve had this conversation on the task ahead. It’s important we’re all on the same page.”
Reflecting on the influence of Troost-Ekong, Ndidi paid glowing tribute to the former captain’s leadership in the dressing room: “He’s a great leader, he speaks a lot for the team, he stands for the team and he tries to take everything in for the team. I admire him a lot, how outspoken he is. I think he’s someone everyone in the team looks up to.”
Ndidi also revealed that Troost-Ekong has continued to offer guidance even after stepping away from international football: “He’s an amazing guy, I’ve learnt a lot from him. We spoke a couple of weeks ago and he gave me some advice. I feel like he’s still part of the team, and he’s gonna be missed.”
The Super Eagles are heading into the AFCON with renewed determination after missing out on qualification for the World Cup for the second consecutive time, following a penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo in the playoff final. For Ndidi, the continental tournament represents a chance at redemption.
“It was a sad one missing out on the World Cup. This is another opportunity for us to correct the wrongs and put smiles in the faces of Nigerians, make the country proud once again. It’s not gonna be an easy task but we’re really really up for it. We know the task ahead and we look forward to enjoying it together.”
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