Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has unveiled a 24-man squad for Nigeria’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, with three players receiving their first senior call-ups.
Nigeria will begin its qualifying campaign against Madagascar in Uyo on September 25, before travelling to face Guinea-Bissau on September 29.
While Chelle has retained the core of the national team, the inclusion of Arthur Okonkwo, Isaac James and George Ilenikhena provides fresh options as the Franco-Malian coach continues to shape his squad.
Arthur Okonkwo – A New Goalkeeping Option
Arthur Okonkwo is one of the three newcomers and joins the more familiar Stanley Nwabali and Maduka Okoye in the goalkeeping department.
The 24-year-old goalkeeper has been building his career in England and was previously invited to the Super Eagles setup, but the current selection represents his first senior Nigeria call-up, according to the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
His inclusion gives Chelle another option between the posts as Nwabali returns to the squad following his absence from recent selections.
Isaac James – Defensive Reinforcement
The second new face is Isaac James, a versatile defender who can operate on the left side of defence.
James, who plays for Portuguese club Alverca, has emerged as an option for Chelle following the unavailability of Zaidu Sanusi. His ability to contribute both defensively and going forward has helped him attract attention in Portugal.
His call-up comes as Chelle looks to broaden his defensive options, with established players such as Ola Aina, Calvin Bassey, Bright Osayi-Samuel and Bruno Onyemaechi also included.
George Ilenikhena – Teenage Forward Gets His Chance
Perhaps the most intriguing newcomer is George Ilenikhena, the young striker who has already gained experience in European football.
The forward, who has represented Nigeria at youth level, has attracted attention for his performances against high-profile opposition in European competition. His first senior invitation comes as Nigeria prepares for its opening qualifiers, with Victor Osimhen also included in the squad despite his recent injury concerns.
Ilenikhena now joins an attacking group featuring Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Akor Adams, Tolu Arokodare and Moses Usor.
Chelle Retains Super Eagles Core
Chelle has largely maintained the backbone of the team, with captain Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Lookman, Osimhen, Moses Simon and Ola Aina among the notable names selected. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali also returns.
The squad reflects a combination of established internationals and emerging talent as Nigeria begins its campaign in Group L.
The Super Eagles’ first assignment will be against Madagascar in Uyo on September 25, followed four days later by an away fixture against Guinea-Bissau. Nigeria will subsequently face Russia in an international friendly on October 6, for which Chelle has selected a separate, more youthful squad.
For Okonkwo, James and Ilenikhena, the September fixtures provide their first opportunity to establish themselves at senior international level and show what they can offer the Super Eagles.
Nigeria’s 24-man AFCON qualifying squad:
Goalkeepers: Arthur Okonkwo, Maduka Okoye, Stanley Nwabali.
Defenders: Bruno Onyemaechi, Isaac James, Benjamin Fredericks, Emmanuel Fernandez, Oluwasemilogo Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Chibuike Nwaiwu, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ola Aina.
Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyeka.
Forwards: Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, Akor Adams, Victor Osimhen, Tolu Arokodare, George Ilenikhena, Moses Usor.
