The Nigeria Football Federation has backed the Besiktas midfielder to lead the three-time African champions at the continental showpiece as they look to redeem themselves after their failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
"Wilfred Ndidi has been named captain of the Super Eagles and says the responsibility means everything as Nigeria heads to Morocco," read the statement, as reported by Punch Online.
Ndidi's first task as captain will be guiding Nigeria in their quest for AFCON glory, with the midfielder emphasising unity and collective belief as key ingredients for success.
"It's a huge responsibility, and with the help of the players, I think everything will go smoothly," Ndidi told the Super Eagles' media team.
The former Leicester City star is expected to play a central role both on and off the pitch as Nigeria look to make a strong impression at the tournament.
However, the appointment has sparked debate in some quarters, with former Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo suggesting that Victor Osimhen may have been a better choice for the armband.
"There are several players ahead of him in terms of seniority, but Osimhen is doing well and he has the courage to demand what the team needs," Ighalo said, as quoted by ESPN.
Ighalo highlighted Osimhen's vocal leadership qualities, contrasting them with Ndidi's calmer personality.
"Ndidi is not the talking type — he's very calm. But Osimhen is outspoken. He will speak on behalf of the team, motivate the boys and fight for them. He will speak to whoever he needs to speak to to make sure the players are okay," he continued.
"The captain's job is not easy because your neck is on the line. Whatever the players demand, you're the one who must put it forward to the NFF. And if there's a problem, they come to you because you are the captain."
The Super Eagles will kick off their AFCON campaign against Tanzania on Tuesday as they begin their pursuit of continental success in Morocco.
Senegal have confirmed that promising striker Assane Diao will miss the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, dealing another blow to the team ahead of their Group D opener against Botswana on Tuesday.
Morocco head coach Walid Regragui has made it clear that the Atlas Lions are fully committed to one objective at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) — lifting the trophy on home soil.
The Africa Cup of Nations will be held every four years from 2028, Confederation of African Football president Patrice Motsepe has announced.
Bafana Bafana begin their quest for continental glory on Monday when they face Angola in their opening Group B match of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with head coach Hugo Broos stressing the importance of a strong start to the tournament.
