Wilfried Ndidi has expressed his delight after being appointed captain of the Nigerian national team and says he is ready to lead the Super Eagles at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, SportPremi reports.
The former Leicester City midfielder has been appointed as captain just few days to Nigeria’s opening clash against Tanzania at the tournament in Morocco.
His appointment comes days after the retirement of former captains William Troost-Ekong and Ahmed Musa, who were the core of the leadership group at the 2023 African Cup of Nations.
The 29-year-old was formerly vice-captain and had led the team on several occasions in the absence of the two former captains.
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He recently led the team in the CAF playoff final against the Democratic Republic of Congo, which the Super Eagles lost on penalty shootout to end their hopes of reaching the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Ndidi Reacts to Captaincy Role
Ahead of the tournament in Morocco, Ndidi, as well as Alex Iwobi, Victor Osimhen and Moses Simon were favorites to be named new captain of the Super Eagles.
Speaking after his announcement, the midfielder expressed excitement and is confident of leading the country to a long-awaited fourth continental crown.
“It’s a huge responsibility and with the help of the players, I think everything will go smoothly,” Ndidi remarked.
“I’ve had conversations with a couple of players, just some of the older players, to try to make them understand that reason why were here.
“We also need support from also staff. We’re all in this together so we’ve had this conversation of the task ahead and it is very important that you all be on same page.
“It was a sad one missing out on the World Cup, but this is another opportunity. Another day, another opportunity to correct the wrongs, put smiles on faces of Nigerians, and make country proud once again”, the 29-year-old continued.
“It’s not going to be an easy task, but we’re really up for it.”
On the retired William Troost-Ekong
“Troost-Ekong is a great leader, he speaks a lot for team stands with the team, and tries to take everything in,” Ndidi added.
“I admire him a lot for how outspoken he is. I think one person everyone looks up to. He’s a guy that actually stands for the team.
He encourages everyone, and he is an amazing guy. I’ve learnt a lot from him. We spoke a couple of weeks ago, and he chipped in some advice for me. So I feel like he still part to be on our team and he’s gonna be missed”, he concluded.
Ndidi will now lead Nigeria when they begin their 2025 AFCON campaign against Tanzania at the Fez Stadium on the 23rd.
