Maduka Okoye and Tolu Arokodare are not included in the Super Eagles’ final 28-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, whereas Omonia goalkeeper Francis Uzoho and Trabzonspor forward Paul Onuachu have been called up to the Nigerian national team, according to PUNCH Online.
Three goalkeepers, eight defenders, eight midfielders, and nine strikers were named as Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle’s final roster for the competition, which is set to take place in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.
The team now has more options in attack, midfield, and defense thanks to the addition of several new players. Ryan Alebiosu of Blackburn Rovers receives his first backline invitation, and Igoh Ogbu of Slavia Prague joins the team as a key defensive reinforcement.
The midfield sees further reinforcements, with Inter Milan youngster and Remo Stars Academy graduate Ebenezer Akinsanmiro joining the group alongside Israel-based Usman Muhammed and former Flying Eagles star Tochukwu Nnadi.
In the forward line, Croatia-based striker and ex-Flying Eagles forward Lawal Salim Fago is the latest newcomer.
Uzoho, who last featured for the team in March 2024, returns to the goalkeeping unit and will work alongside Chippa United’s Stanley Nwabali—whose participation remains doubtful due to fitness concerns—while Amas Obasogie of Singida Black Stars completes the trio.
Among the midfielders, Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka, Wilfred Ndidi, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Raphael Onyedika form the experienced core of the eight-man unit.
Up front, Victor Osimhen spearheads the attack, supported by Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon and the Sevilla pair of Akor Adams and Chidera Ejuke. Cyriel Dessers of Panathinaikos keeps his place, while Onuachu earns his first invitation under Chelle following his strong run of form in Turkey.
Nigeria will compete in Group C at the tournament, where they have been drawn against Tunisia, Tanzania and Uganda.
