The Super Eagles’ camp in Uyo is officially active, with 20 players in camp ahead of their opening AFCON 2027 qualifying fixtures against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
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Head coach Éric Chelle and his full technical staff have checked into the team base to oversee the squad’s initial tactical drills. While the core group is fully assembled, attention remains on AC Milan winger Samuel Chukwueze and three other crucial squad members slated to land by evening.
The early wave features marquee figures such as Ballon d’Or nominee Ademola Lookman, playmaker Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon, and newly called-up forward George Ilenikhena.
At present, team captain Wilfred Ndidi, and attacker Samuel Chukwueze, are already on their way to join the group, with all expected players scheduled to complete the roster for the Tuesday’s training session which will commence at 6pm.
The mood in Uyo has transitioned from anticipation to focused preparation. In total, 20 players checked into their accommodation prior to the commencement of field work. The squad displays a mix of established figures and exciting new call-ups. Defensive options Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Emmanuel Fernandez, Benjamin Fredericks, Chibuike Nwaiwu, and Isaac James have all reported. They are joined in camp by midfield engines Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, and Raphael Onyedika.
Frontline firepower is already well represented in Uyo, with attackers Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, Akor Adams, Tolu Arokodare, Taiwo Awoniyi, Moses Usor, and George Ilenikhena all present and accounting for the team’s forward depth.
Dual-nationality inclusions, such as former Arsenal youth keeper Arthur Okonkwo, who stands as the sole goalkeeper currently in camp and young forward George Ilenikhena, have also checked in to begin their integration into the senior national setup.
Coach Éric Chelle requires just four additional players to complete his 24-man setup. Samuel Chukwueze, Stanley Nwabali, Maduka Okoye, and captain Wilfred Ndidi represent the final expected arrivals.
The technical staff has initiated training with the available players as focus turns entirely to the qualifying series. Nigeria hosts Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, September 25, before traveling to face Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29.
