The influential midfielder who turns 30 today, was seen as the ideal candidate to lead the team for the foreseeable future following his impressive displays last season in which he not only stood head and shoulders above the rest in terms of performances but also in terms of taking responsibility.
Bolton manager Sam Allardyce felt the Nigerian, who is also captain for his country would be perfect for the role following last season's exploits.
"I was impressed with the way he took on the extra responsibility towards the end of last season. On several occasions he was world class. He showed great maturity when it was needed and his experience rubbed off on other players in the squad" he told the clubs official site.
"A good captain needs to be able to communicate with other members of the squad on various levels effectively. Jay-Jay can converse with our multi international squad in different languages and that is very important to us" said Allardyce
The Bolton manager also paid a quick tribute to departing skipper Gudni Bergsson who has retired after eight successful years with the club
"I am hoping that he will be as succesful as the last player to take on the job, Gudni Bergsson. If he is as half as good as Gudni then we have found the perfect leader to take us onto the next level"
Okocha himself showed an element of pride in captaining the side when he said "It is a great honour to be captaining Bolton Wanderers, i have enjoyed playing in Bolton and i have a great commitment to this club. I hope this will be a new sign on how the club is progressing"
"I have been playing at the highest level for a long time and the experience that i can bring to the club in this new position will be good. I have captained my country on a number of occasions and i have always responded to that extra responsibility" he added
Okocha beat the likes of Per Frandsen, Kevin Nolan, Youri Djorkaeff who where all thought to be in with a shout of leading the team for next season.
We wish Jay-Jay well in his new role here at www.boltonwanderers-mad.co.uk and hope he can take the team up the league.