Six Super Eagles players arrived in Uyo on Monday, 21 September, 2026, as Nigeria step up preparations for their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture against Madagascar on Friday, 25 September, 2026.
Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi and goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo were among the latest arrivals, with the players pictured enjoying dinner together after making their way into camp.
Their arrival further strengthens Éric Chelle’s squad as the Super Eagles continue preparations for the Group L encounter at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo.
The Nigeria Football Federation had included all six players in Chelle’s 24-man squad for the opening qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau. Aina is returning to the national team after being brought back into the fold, while Okonkwo is one of three goalkeepers selected for the fixtures.
Iwobi, meanwhile, remains one of the established figures in the squad, with the Fulham midfielder expected to provide experience and creativity in Chelle’s midfield. Bassey, Ajayi, Aina and Osayi-Samuel give the coach several options across the defensive line.
Meanwhile as Nigeria’s squad continues to assemble, Madagascar’s Barea have already settled in Uyo ahead of Friday, 25 September, 2026, encounter.
The Malagasy delegation arrived in the Akwa Ibom capital on Monday, with reports putting the travelling party at 28 players and officials. The team touched down at Victor Attah International Airport before proceeding to its accommodation.
The early arrival gives Madagascar time to acclimatise and complete preparations before facing the three-time African champions.
The Barea will be hoping to make a strong start to their qualifying campaign against a Nigerian side beginning a new qualification cycle under Chelle
