Super Eagles Camp Opens as Okonkwo, Premier League Stars Arrive Ahead of AFCON Qualifiers

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have begun preparations for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, with goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo and several England-based players among the early arrivals at the team’s camp in Akwa Ibom. The squad is based in Ikot Ekpene, while head coach Éric Chelle and his technical staff have commenced preparations for Nigeria’s opening Group L fixture against Madagascar. Players reported to camp ahead of the first training session on Tuesday, September 22. The early arrivals include Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi and Arthur Okonkwo. Taiwo Awoniyi and Frank Onyeka were also expected to join the group. The Super Eagles have a 24-man squad for the opening qualifiers. Arthur Okonkwo, Isaac James and George Ilenikhena received their first senior call-ups from Chelle. Nigeria will host Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, September 25, before travelling to Guinea-Bissau for their second qualifier on September 29. Victor Osimhen is among the notable absentees after being ruled out with a muscle injury, while Taiwo Awoniyi has been brought in as his replacement. Source: https://www.thisdaylive.com/2026/09/22/super-eagles-camp-open-with-first-training-session-in-ikot-ekpene