The Super Eagles camp in Akwa Ibom State is gathering momentum as Nigeria intensifies preparations for Friday’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying fixture against Madagascar.
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Head coach Éric Chelle opened camp on Monday at the team’s base in Ikot Ekpene, with key members of his 24-man squad arriving ahead of the Group L encounter at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
Among the early arrivals from the England-based contingent were Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Calvin Bassey, and Semi Ajayi, along with goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali also joined the camp on Monday, with additional invited players—including Taiwo Awoniyi and Frank Onyeka—expected to arrive prior to Tuesday’s first official training session.
Team Media Officer Promise Efoghe confirmed that the squad is fully focused on the build-up to Friday’s match, which marks Nigeria’s return to competitive action following their international friendly against Portugal in June.
Meanwhile, the Malagasy national team landed in Lagos on Monday afternoon before connecting to Uyo to complete their own arrival protocols.
Nigeria will host Madagascar on Friday before embarking on a road fixture against Guinea-Bissau four days later, as Chelle’s side aims to secure an early advantage in the race for AFCON 2027 qualification.
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