AFCON 2025: Odion Ighalo Backs Victor Osimhen for Super Eagles Captaincy

Former Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo has backed Victor Osimhen to become the next captain of Nigeria’s national team ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), rating him above Wilfred Ndidi and other senior players in the squad.

The former Manchester United, Al Hilal, and Watford forward shared his opinion amid ongoing discussions surrounding the Super Eagles’ leadership structure. Ighalo is currently without a club after his contract with Saudi Arabian side Al-Wehda expired in July.

The captaincy position became vacant earlier this month following the retirement of William Troost-Ekong from international football, bringing an end to his decade-long career with the national team. With the armband now open, attention has turned to potential successors.

While Wilfred Ndidi is widely expected to step into the role after previously deputising for Troost-Ekong, Ighalo believes Osimhen is better suited to lead the team going forward.

Speaking to ESPN journalist Colin Udoh, Ighalo made it clear that his support for Osimhen is not based on age or seniority.

“Victor Osimhen should be the next captain – not because he is the oldest player in the team,” Ighalo said. “There are older players like Moses Simon, Alex Iwobi and Chidozie Awaziem.

“There are many players ahead of him in terms of age, but Osimhen is in his prime and he dares to demand what he wants.”