Wilfred Ndidi is poised to be named the new permanent captain of the Super Eagles ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, following the retirement of William Troost-Ekong.
Ekong, who led Nigeria to a runners-up finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, announced his retirement from international football on Thursday, ending a decade-long spell in which he earned 83 caps.
With the 2025 AFCON now less than three weeks away, head coach Eric Chelle is expected to select Ndidi as the natural successor.
The 28-year-old defensive midfielder has already worn the armband on several occasions, most recently when he captained the team during the 2026 FIFA World Cup African playoffs in November.
Nigeria defeated Gabon and advanced to the final under Ndidi’s leadership but failed to reach the intercontinental playoffs after a penalty shootout defeat to the DR Congo.
Ndidi made his Super Eagles debut in October 2015 against DR Congo and has since amassed 71 caps.
Also read:Â Ekong Regrets AFCON, As He Speaks on Super Eagles Retirement
He is one of the longest-serving Nigerian player included in Eric Chelle’s provisional squad list for the 2025 AFCON.
He featured in the 2019 and 2021 Africa Cup of Nations but missed the 2023 tournament due to injury.
The Super Eagles will begin their campaign on December 23 against Tanzania in Fez.
