Moses Simon or Victor Osimhen: Akor Adams confirms the true Super Eagles Vice-captain

Super Eagles striker Akor Adams has confirmed that Victor Osimhen is the official vice-captain of the Nigerian national team, Soccernet.ng reports.

Following William Troost-Ekong’s retirement from international football last year, speculation was rife regarding the team's leadership.

Eventually, Wilfred Ndidi was confirmed as the captain ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. This transition felt natural, as Ndidi had long served as Troost-Ekong’s deputy.

Ndidi Wilfred Nigeria gestures during the Africa Cup Of Nations match between Mozambique. (Photo by ImagoxThor Wegner/DeFodi Images)

​Despite Ndidi's appointment, confusion persisted over who held the vice-captaincy. During the AFCON tournament in Morocco, veteran winger Moses Simon was seen wearing the armband, leading many to believe he was the designated number two, especially given his seniority in the squad.

But the debate intensified during a match incident involving Osimhen. He started as the captain, then thinking he was about to be substituted, the former African Footballer of the Year handed the armband to Simon.

Wilfred Ndidi of Nigeria during the AFCON 2025 match between Super Eagles and Mozambique. Copyright: IMAGOxVincentxKAMTOx

However, once it was confirmed that he would remain on the pitch, Osimhen went back to Simon to collect the armband from Simon.

​This back-and-forth prompted fans and analysts to question the true hierarchy of the three-time African champions.

Akor Adams Confirms Ndidi’s Deputy

Sevilla forward Akor Adams, who enjoyed an impressive tournament debut at AFCON 2025 with two goals and two assists, has provided the answer to who the Super Eagles vice-captain is.

Wilfred Ndidi, Victor Osimhen, Akor Adams, and Mozambique players against Super Eagles. Copyright: IMAGOxshengolpixsx

In a recent interview, Adams noted in passing that Osimhen is the team’s second captain. This revelation confirms a hierarchy where Wilfred Ndidi remains the captain, followed by Victor Osimhen as vice-captain and Moses Simon as the third captain.

“Wilfred did an amazing job as captain, on the pitch and off the pitch. Victor Osimhen as well, he is the second captain and Moses Simon as well,” Adams told Sporty TV.

​Despite the occasional criticism directed at Osimhen for his character and antics his leadership on the pitch in Morocco was described as exemplary.

At 27, the striker is the boldest and most vocal in the squad. While Ndidi remains the leader for now, Osimhen is clearly the odds-on favorite to take over the permanent captaincy in the future.