“It’s huge responsibility” – Ndidi embraces Super Eagles captaincy
Wilfred Ndidi has described his appointment as Super Eagles captain as a “huge responsibility” he is fully prepared to shoulder as Nigeria intensifies preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The Beşiktaş midfielder has now been confirmed as the team’s substantive captain following the international retirements of William Troost-Ekong and Ahmed Musa.
Ndidi had already worn the armband in recent fixtures, including World Cup playoff matches against Gabon and DR Congo, as well as World Cup qualifiers against Benin Republic.
Speaking on the role, Ndidi stressed that leadership within the Super Eagles would remain a collective effort rather than an individual burden.
“It’s a huge responsibility and with the help of the players, I think everything will go smoothly,” he said.
Focus on unity and shared purpose
Ndidi revealed that internal conversations have already taken place to align the squad ahead of AFCON, with an emphasis on unity, accountability and clarity of purpose.
“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,” he explained.
“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.”
Tribute to Troost-Ekong’s leadership
The midfielder paid tribute to former captain William Troost-Ekong, acknowledging his influence both on and off the pitch and crediting him as a leadership reference point within the squad.
“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,” Ndidi said.
“I admire him a lot, how outspoken he is. I think he’s someone everyone in the team looks up to.”
Ndidi added that Troost-Ekong has continued to offer guidance despite stepping away from international football.
AFCON as a redemption platform
Nigeria head into AFCON 2025 determined to respond after missing out on qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a playoff defeat to DR Congo.
Ndidi views the tournament as a critical opportunity to reset and reconnect with supporters.
“It was a sad one missing out on the World Cup,” he admitted. “This is another opportunity for us to correct the wrongs and put smiles on the faces of Nigerians, make the country proud once again. It’s not going to be easy, but we’re really up for it.”
