Two goals from Nicolas Jackson helped Senegal ease to a comfortable 3-0 victory over Botswana in their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Much of the Group D encounter in Tangier was played in torrential rain, with Botswana struggling to cope as the 2021 champions launched wave after wave of attacks.
Zebras’ goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko made an early bid for player of the match in the opening half hour, keeping out efforts from the likes of Sadio Mane and Iliman Ndiaye.
But five minutes before the break, Jackson swept home a pinpoint left-wing cross from full-back Ismail Jakobs after being left unmarked in the area.
The Chelsea striker, currently on loan at Bayern Munich, grabbed his second with a neat finish in the 58th minute, before substitute Cherif Ndiaye wrapped things up in the final minute of normal time.
Botswana, who have never won a match at AFCON, never threatened their opponents and will need to improve against Benin in Rabat on Saturday if they want to change that unwanted statistic.
Senegal moved top of the Group D on goal difference above DR Congo, who they face back in Tangier on the same day.
Nigeria’s top-ranked male doubles tennis player, Yusuf Abubakar, and the country’s highest-ranked female junior player, Ohunene Yakubu, emerged champions in the men’s and women’s singles events respectively at the Merit Tennis Open, held at the National Stadium tennis courts, Surulere, Lagos.
Abubakar defeated Daniel Adeleye, the current No. 1 player in the Nigeria Tennis Federation men’s singles rankings, to secure the men’s singles title and a ₦500,000 winner’s prize. Adeleye received ₦250,000 as runner-up.
In the women’s singles final, Yakubu overcame Bright Emmanuel to claim the ₦500,000 top prize, while Emmanuel earned ₦250,000.
The tournament, organised by Merit Petroleum Nigeria Limited in collaboration with the Mainland Tennis Club, also featured junior and wheelchair tennis events, underscoring its commitment to inclusivity.
In the junior category, Issa Yahya defeated Nathaniel Aluko to emerge champion, earning ₦150,000, while the runner-up received ₦100,000.
In the wheelchair tennis events, Nigeria’s top-ranked men’s wheelchair player, Alex Adewale, claimed the men’s title and ₦400,000, with Yusuf Wasiu finishing second.
In the women’s wheelchair final, Nigeria’s number one-ranked female wheelchair player, Chituru Nwaozuzu, defeated Andrea Usoh to win the title and a ₦400,000 prize.
Speaking on the rationale behind the sponsorship, the Chief Executive Officer of Merit Petroleum Nigeria Limited, Tokunbo Onasanya, said the initiative was designed to promote local talent and encourage inclusivity in sports.
“Every time I come to the stadium, I see the hard work these players put in, from children to women and the physically challenged. This is our third year of supporting tennis here, and we hope to continue to grow the tournament and show our local talent”, she said.
Onasanya stressed that the company was deliberate about equitable rewards across all categories, adding that every participant received some form of incentive.
“Whether they are men, women or wheelchair players, everyone is rewarded fairly. We want to encourage them to represent Nigeria locally and internationally”, she added.
President of Mainland Tennis Club, Tochukwu Adino, described the event as a maiden edition at this scale, noting that plans were underway to elevate it to a national tournament.
“We decided to make it an open tournament to invite players from Lagos and its environs to showcase their talents. Next year, we are planning a bigger edition that will be included in the Nigeria Tennis Federation calendar”, Adino said.
He noted that sports remained one of the most effective tools for youth empowerment and urged government and corporate organisations to invest more deliberately in grassroots competitions.
“There are many empowerment programmes by politicians, but sports is the language young people understand. Through sports, we can get many youths off the streets, help them discover their talents and even build careers”, Adino said.
He added that tennis had helped transform the lives of several youngsters at the National Stadium, noting that many started out as ball boys before being mentored by club members.
“Some of these boys you see today came from the streets. They started by picking balls and, through mentoring and scholarships from club members, they have developed into competitive players”, he said.
Adino called on corporate bodies to see tennis sponsorship as a viable corporate social responsibility (CSR) platform, stressing that sustained funding was key to the sport’s survival.
“Tennis is an expensive sport. Without corporate sponsorship, it is difficult to sustain development. We are building a structure that will outlive our tenure and continue to support young talents,” he added.
Also speaking, Yemi Onasanya said the cumulative prize money for the tournament exceeded ₦10 million, noting that most of the players were nationally ranked.
“The winners of both the men’s and women’s categories earned ₦500,000 each. The tournament is open, but seeded players are selected based on national rankings”, he explained.
The wheelchair tennis champions used the platform to highlight challenges facing para-sports athletes in the country.
Adewale described the Merit Tennis Open as the highest-paying para-sports tennis tournament in Nigeria, while calling for improved sponsorship and equipment support.
“We have the talent, but we lack equipment and sponsorship. If we get the right support, we can compete internationally”, he said.
Nwaozuzu, who recently won three gold medals at the West African Para Games in Abeokuta, said inadequate equipment and funding continued to hamper wheelchair tennis development in Nigeria.
“I believe that this new president will do better. Because in the wheelchair tennis, they don’t have a standard wheelchair to play the tennis. If at all we have a standard wheelchair, because I have been in tournament outside country, I don’t see what they are playing.
But what they are using to defeat us is the wheelchair that they are using. They are using a better wheelchair than us” .
Members of Nigeria’s Super Eagles squad that finished second at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) have officially received their national honours certificates as well as title documents for houses and land allocations promised by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The presentation took place on December 22, 2025, at the team’s hotel in Fez, Morocco, ahead of the Super Eagles’ opening match of the new AFCON qualifying campaign.
President Tinubu had pledged the rewards following Nigeria’s runners-up finish at the 2023 AFCON tournament held in Côte d’Ivoire in January and February 2024.
The brief ceremony was led by Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, and attended by several dignitaries, including the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, Senator Abdul Ningi; Chairman of the House Committee on Sports, Hon. Kabiru Amadu; Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale; President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Ibrahim Gusau; Senior Special Assistant to the President, Mrs. Nathan-Mash; Nigerian High Commission officials; and Mallam Saleh Amadu, among others.
Speaking at the event, Dikko clarified that most players were awarded the Member of the Order of the Niger (MON).
However, Ahmed Musa and Victor Osimhen received the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), having previously been conferred with the MON.
Team captain William Troost-Ekong was awarded the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) in recognition of his emergence as Player of the Tournament at AFCON 2023.
Dikko confirmed that all national honours, housing allocations in Abuja or Lagos, and land grants in Abuja approved by President Tinubu had been fully processed, with allocation letters issued in line with the President’s commitment to rewarding excellence and national service.
He also disclosed that similar rewards approved for the Super Falcons and Nigeria’s men’s basketball team, D’Tigers, have been processed. Title documents for houses and national honours certificates are ready for collection, while the Ministry of Finance and the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation are finalising the direct payment of the cash awards — equivalent to $100,000 per player — into the beneficiaries’ bank accounts.
The development highlights a renewed focus on structured athlete welfare and accountability, as the Super Eagles shift attention back to their on-field responsibilities in the ongoing AFCON qualification campaign.
The Super Eagles will begin their quest for glory at the 35th Africa Cup of Nations , Morocco 2025, with their opener against the Taifa Stars of Tanzania at the Complexe Sportif de Fès. From the battle-hardened internationals to players eager to write their fresh stories at the international level, the team assembled by coach Eric Sekou Chelle for the continental showpiece carries both the weight of history and the hunger to end a 12-year wait for AFCON glory, MORAKINYO ABODUNRIN and DANIEL OYEKAN profile the country’s hope bearers in Morocco…
STANLEY NWABALI: From late bloomer to numero uno
Stanley Nwabali’s rise to prominence remains one of the most compelling stories in recent Super Eagles history. Born on June 10, 1996, the Chippa United goalkeeper arrived on the international scene relatively late, having plied his trade extensively within Nigeria’s domestic league with Lobi Stars, Go Round FC and Katsina United before moving to South Africa.
Nwabali made his Super Eagles debut on July 3, 2021, in a 4–0 friendly defeat to Mexico in the United States a game few would have predicted would be the foundation of a remarkable international career. His defining moment, however, came at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.
Trusted as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, Nwabali delivered a string of assured performances throughout the tournament, most memorably producing decisive saves during the semi-final penalty shootout victory over South Africa. His composure, shot-stopping ability and command of the penalty area played a crucial role as Nigeria marched to the final, eventually settling for silver.
FRANCIS UZOHO: Experienced with a point to prove
Francis Uzoho remains one of the most experienced goalkeepers in the Super Eagles squad, despite a career that has fluctuated between promise and criticism. Born on October 28, 1998, the Omonia FC of Cyprus goalkeeper shot into global attention in November 2017 when he produced a man-of-the-match performance against Lionel Messi-led Argentina in a friendly.
Uzoho was Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and the 2019 AFCON in Egypt, where the Super Eagles secured a bronze medal under Gernot Rohr. However, his form dipped in subsequent years, culminating in the loss of his starting role to Maduka Okoye at the 2021 AFCON in Cameroon, where Nigeria exited in the round of 16.
At the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire, Uzoho played second fiddle to Nwabali but remained an important figure within the squad. A winner of the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup with the Golden Eaglets, Uzoho has amassed 36 caps for Nigeria and will be heading to his fourth AFCON tournament in Morocco.
AMAS OBASOGIE: The newcomer with everything to gain
Amas Obasogie represents the future and depth of Nigeria’s goalkeeping department. Born on December 14, 1999, in Benin City, the 25-year-old currently plies his trade with Singida Black Stars in Tanzania.
Obasogie began his professional career with Bendel Insurance, where he featured prominently between 2022 and 2024 before a brief stint with Ethiopian side Fasil Kenema. His move to Singida Black Stars in February 2025 marked another step forward in his steadily developing career.
Although yet to make his Super Eagles debut or appear at an AFCON tournament, Obasogie’s inclusion signals a deliberate effort to build continuity and competition within the squad. For the young goalkeeper, Morocco 2025 presents a valuable learning platform and an opportunity to stake a future claim for the national team’s number one jersey.
CHIDOZIE AWAZIEM: Versatility and tournament pedigree
Born on January 1, 1997, Chidozie Awaziem remains one of Nigeria’s most dependable defensive options. Comfortable as a centre-back or right-back, Awaziem’s career has taken him across Europe and North America, featuring for FC Porto B, Nantes, CD Leganés, Alanyaspor, Boavista, FC Cincinnati, Colorado Rapids and Hajduk Split before returning to Nantes on a three-year deal in the summer of 2025.
Awaziem made his Super Eagles debut in 2017 and was part of Nigeria’s squad at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. He has featured at three AFCON tournaments — Egypt 2019, Cameroon 2021 and Côte d’Ivoire 2023 winning bronze and silver medals respectively.
BRIGHT OSAYI-SAMUEL: Energy width and modern full-back play
Bright Osayi-Samuel brings dynamism and attacking thrust from the right flank. Born on December 31, 1997, in Okija, Anambra State, but raised in England, Osayi-Samuel developed through Blackpool and Queens Park Rangers before enjoying a successful spell at Fenerbahce, where he became a fan favourite. Now with Birmingham City following a move in 2024, Osayi-Samuel combines defensive discipline with explosive pace and direct attacking play. Despite representing England at youth level, he committed to Nigeria and made his Super Eagles debut under José Peseiro. His versatility capable of operating as a full-back, wing-back or winger — proved vital during Nigeria’s silver-medal run at AFCON 2023 and will again be crucial in Morocco.
BRUNO ONYEMAECHI: Tactical flexibility on the left
Bruno Onyemaechi’s emergence has added depth and balance to Nigeria’s defensive setup. Born on April 3, 1999, the Olympiacos defender can operate effectively as a left-back or centre-back, offering tactical flexibility.
He made his international debut in September 2023 during Nigeria’s emphatic 6–0 win over São Tomé and Príncipe in AFCON qualifying. Onyemaechi went on to feature at the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire, where he claimed a silver medal in his maiden continental appearance. His calm distribution and positional awareness make him a reliable option in Chelle’s defensive rotations.
OLUWASEMILOGO “SEMI” AJAYI: Leadership and aerial authority
Semi Ajayi remains one of Nigeria’s most commanding defensive figures. Born on November 9, 1993, in London, the Hull City centre-back offers leadership, strength and aerial dominance.
Ajayi made his Super Eagles debut in 2018.Notably, he played every minute of Nigeria’s seven matches at AFCON 2023, forming the backbone of a defence that conceded few goals en route to the final. A veteran of the Cameroon 2021 and Côte d’Ivoire 2023 tournaments, Ajayi’s experience and composure will be invaluable as Nigeria targets continental glory.
CALVIN BASSEY: Power, pace and sturdy defending
Calvin Ugochukwu Bassey has rapidly established himself as one of Africa’s elite defenders. Born on December 31, 1999, in Italy to Nigerian parents, Bassey rose through the ranks at Rangers before a high-profile move to Ajax and later Fulham.
Equally effective at left-back or centre-back, Bassey combines athleticism with ball-playing confidence. Since making his debut in 2022, he has become a defensive mainstay, playing a pivotal role in Nigeria’s silver-medal finish at AFCON 2023. His first international goal a crucial strike against South Africa in a 2026 World Cup qualifier further underlined his growing influence.
ZAIDU SANUSI: attacking tour de force from the left
Zaidu Sanusi’s attacking instincts from left-back add a valuable dimension to Nigeria’s play. Born on June 13, 1997, in Kaduna, Sanusi rose to prominence in Portugal and has since become a key figure at FC Porto, winning multiple domestic titles. Sanusi made his Super Eagles debut in 2020 and has featured at two AFCON tournaments Cameroon 2021 and Côte d’Ivoire 2023. Known for his stamina, overlapping runs and crossing ability, Morocco 2025 will mark his third AFCON appearance as he seeks to finally lift the continental trophy.
IGOH OGBU: Physical presence and new blood
Igoh Ogbu represents the infusion of fresh energy into Nigeria’s defence. Born on February 8, 2000, the Slavia Prague defender earned his first senior cap during the 2025 Unity Cup in London against Ghana.
A former U-20 international, Ogbu featured at the 2019 CAF U-20 AFCON and FIFA U-20 World Cup. His aggressive tackling and physical style have stood out in the Czech league and European competitions. Drafted into the squad by Chelle, he is expected to provide depth following injury concerns around other defensive options.
RYAN ALEBIOSU: Versatility and rising profile
Ryan Alebiosu is one of the most exciting defensive prospects in the squad. Born on December 17, 2001, in London to Nigerian parents, the Blackburn Rovers right-back developed at Arsenal and gained valuable experience through loan spells across England and Scotland.
Now thriving at Blackburn, where he has won multiple Player of the Month awards, Alebiosu offers pace, versatility and tactical intelligence. His ability to operate in both defence and midfield positions gives Chelle valuable flexibility heading into AFCON 2025.
WILFRED NDIDI: Captain and ‘generalissimo’
Wilfred Ndidi remains the heartbeat of Nigeria’s midfield when fit. Born on December 16, 1996, in Lagos, Ndidi has built a reputation as one of Europe’s elite ball-winning midfielders. After rising to prominence at Genk, he spent seven influential seasons at Leicester City before joining Turkish giants Beşiktaş in 2024, where he was swiftly appointed vice-captain. With over 70 international caps, Ndidi brings vast experience, having featured at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and two AFCON tournaments in Egypt 2019 and Cameroon 2021. Although injury ruled him out of Nigeria’s silver-medal run at AFCON 2023, his return restores authority, positional discipline and leadership to the Super Eagles’ midfield. The newly crowned Super Eagles’ captain presence allows Nigeria to defend compactly while transitioning quickly into attack.
RAPHAEL ONYEDIKA: Youthful with dynamic energy
Raphael Onyedika has steadily evolved into a reliable midfield enforcer for Nigeria. Born on April 19, 2001, the Club Brugge midfielder combines physical strength with composure on the ball. After moving from FC Ebedei to Midtjylland and then Club Brugge, Onyedika gained invaluable Champions League exposure, sharpening his tactical awareness.He made his Super Eagles debut in 2022 and featured at AFCON 2023, where his discipline and energy were vital in shielding the defence. Onyedika’s ability to break up play and recycle possession fits seamlessly into Chelle’s emphasis on structure and balance.
FRANK ONYEKA: Relentless pressing power
Frank Onyeka brings intensity and box-to-box dynamism to Nigeria’s midfield. Born on January 1, 1998, Onyeka made his name at Midtjylland before moving to Brentford in the Premier League, where his pressing ability and work rate became defining traits. Onyeka featured at the Cameroon 2021 AFCON and was part of the silver-winning squad in Côte d’Ivoire in 2023. His tireless running and ball-carrying ability provide Nigeria with verticality, particularly against high-pressing opponents.
FISAYO DELE-BASHIRU: Creative attacking option
One of Nigeria’s most exciting midfield additions is Fisayo Dele-Bashiru. Born on February 4, 2001, and currently with Lazio in the Italian Serie A, Dele-Bashiru offers creativity, dribbling and deep runs into the box.
Despite limited international experience, he has already announced himself with goals, including a strike on debut against South Africa in a 2026 World Cup qualifier. His versatility capable of playing centrally or wide gives Chelle an attacking option capable of unlocking stubborn defences.
ALEX IWOBI: Experience, intelligence and leadership
Alex Iwobi remains one of Nigeria’s most influential midfield figures. Born on May 3, 1996, Iwobi has amassed 91 caps, making him one of the most experienced players in the squad. Now a central midfielder at Fulham, Iwobi has matured tactically, offering vision, composure and positional awareness. A veteran of three AFCON tournaments and the 2018 FIFA World Cup, he was part of Nigeria’s silver-medal squad at AFCON 2023. His leadership and ability to control tempo make him indispensable in high-pressure matches.
TOCHUKWU NNADI: Emerging powerful force
Tochukwu Nnadi represents the next generation of Nigerian midfielders. Born on June 30, 2003, the Zulte Waregem midfielder is known for his strength, explosiveness and ball-winning ability. A Flying Eagles regular at the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup, Nnadi featured in all five matches, including notable victories over Italy and Argentina. Though uncapped at senior level, his inclusion signals Chelle’s intent to gradually integrate youthful physicality into the national setup.
EBENEZER AKINSANMIRO: The ‘special one’ for the future
Ebenezer Akinsanmiro offers versatility and technical intelligence. Born on November 25, 2004, the Pisa midfielder on loan from Inter Milan has impressed in Italy with his energy and passing range.
Capable of operating as a central midfielder, attacking midfielder or wide player, Akinsanmiro’s adaptability aligns with Chelle’s fluid tactical philosophy. Though made his debut in the pre-AFCON 2025 friendly against Egypt, Akinsanmiro is widely regarded as one for the future.
USMAN MUHAMMED: Vastly travelled and Experience across continents
Usman Muhammed brings maturity and international exposure to the midfield unit. Born on March 2, 1994, in Kaduna, he has featured across Europe and Asia, including stints in Norway, Armenia, Russia, Kazakhstan and Israel.
A former Nigeria U-23 and Olympic team player, Muhammed’s experience could prove valuable in managing difficult phases of tournament football. His discipline and positional awareness offer depth and stability.
VICTOR OSIMHEN: The talismanic scorer cum standard bearer
Victor James Osimhen remains the focal point of Nigeria’s attack and one of Africa’s most lethal strikers. Born on December 29, 1998, Osimhen’s rise from the streets of Lagos to global stardom is one of African football’s defining stories. After winning the Golden Boot at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup, Osimhen progressed through Wolfsburg, Charleroi and Lille before reaching iconic status at Napoli, where he fired the club to its first Serie A title in 33 years and was crowned African Footballer of the Year in 2023. His subsequent move to Galatasaray only enhanced his reputation, as he powered the Turkish giants to domestic glory. With 31 goals in 45 international appearances, Osimhen is now Nigeria’s second-highest goal scorer of all time. AFCON Morocco 2025 will be his third appearance after bronze in 2019 and silver in 2023 and possibly his best chance yet to claim continental gold.
ADEMOLA LOOKMAN: The game changer
Ademola Lookman brings unpredictability and finesse to Nigeria’s attack. Born on October 20, 1997, the Atalanta forward enjoyed a career-defining season in 2024, scoring a historic Europa League final hat-trick a feat unmatched in nearly five decades. Since committing to Nigeria in 2022, Lookman has become indispensable. His ability to operate across the front line, beat defenders one-on-one and score crucial goals makes him a constant menace. At AFCON 2023, he finished as Nigeria’s joint top scorer, underlining his growing influence on the continental stage.
SAMUEL CHUKWUEZE: The eclectic wing wizard
Few Nigerian attackers possess the raw acceleration and dribbling flair of Samuel Chukwueze. Born on May 22, 1999, the former Villarreal winger made his name tormenting defences in La Liga before joining AC Milan, and later revitalising his form during a loan spell at Fulham. A veteran of three AFCON tournaments — Egypt 2019, Cameroon 2021 and Côte d’Ivoire 2023 — Chukwueze offers experience and directness from wide areas. His ability to stretch defences creates space for central attackers, making him a tactical weapon against compact teams.
MOSES SIMON: The consistent Trojan
Moses Simon remains one of Nigeria’s most reliable attacking outlets. Born on July 12, 1995, the Paris FC winger has been a consistent Super Eagles performer for nearly a decade.
With almost 90 caps and experience across three AFCON tournaments, Simon’s pace, work rate and crossing ability provide balance on the flanks. His understanding of tournament football and ability to perform under pressure make him a trusted option for Chelle in high-stakes matches.
PAUL ONUACHU: The aerial maestro
Standing at 6ft 7in, Paul Onuachu offers Nigeria a unique attacking dimension. Born on May 28, 1994, the Trabzonspor striker is renowned for his aerial dominance and physical presence. A former Belgian Golden Boot winner, Onuachu provides a Plan B when Nigeria needs directness, particularly against deep-lying defences. His inclusion at AFCON 2023 proved decisive in key moments, and his experience adds tactical variety to the Super Eagles’ frontline.
AKOR ADAMS: Promising prospect
Akor Adams represents the next wave of Nigerian striking power. Born on January 28, 1996, the Sevilla forward made an immediate impact on his international debut, scoring in World Cup qualifiers and showcasing his ability to bully defenders. His hold-up play, strength and finishing offer Chelle an alternative to Osimhen, ensuring Nigeria remains dangerous even when rotating personnel.
CYRIEL DESSERS: Quick-witted finisher
Cyriel Dessers brings efficiency and composure in front of goal. Born on December 8, 1994, the Panathinaikos striker has built a reputation as a reliable scorer across Belgium, the Netherlands, Scotland and Greece. Eligible for Belgium but committed to Nigeria, Dessers featured at the 2021 AFCON and remains a valuable squad option capable of changing games off the bench.
CHIDERA EJUKE: Dribbling prodigy
Chidera Ejuke adds flair and unpredictability to Nigeria’s attacking mix. Born on January 2, 1998, and currently with Sevilla, Ejuke is renowned for his dribbling ability and capacity to destabilise defenders.
Though not a guaranteed starter, his one-on-one skills make him a dangerous late-game option particularly against tiring defences.
SALIM FAGO LAWAL: The future Forward
One of the youngest faces in the attacking department, Salim Fago Lawal represents Nigeria’s long-term attacking future. Born on January 15, 2003, the NK Istra 1961 forward impressed at the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup, scoring and contributing across Nigeria’s campaign.
In fulfilment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s pledge, members of the Super Eagles at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco and was part of the team that finished as runner-up at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire, have received their national honours certificates and property entitlements at their base in Fes yesterday.
President Tinubu had in February 2024 , rewarded the Super Eagles with a national award (Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) flats in the Federal Capital Territory and piece of land following their gallantry Enroute to the final where they bowed 2-1 to the hosts in the grand finale.
The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC) Mallam Shehu Dikko, confirmed the development, stating that the honours were conferred in the categories of Member of the Order of the Niger (MON) or Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), in line with existing national awards already held by individual players.
Dikko explained that the classification ensured compliance with national honours regulations, which prevent the duplication of the same category of awards, while still recognising the players’ outstanding contribution to Nigerian football at the continental tournament.
In addition to the honours, the Super Eagles players have also received their housing and land allocations, which were approved by President Tinubu, GCFR, as part of the reward package for the team’s AFCON achievement.
According to Dikko , the property allocations have been fully processed, with Certificates of Occupancy issued, bringing closure to the long-awaited rewards and reaffirming the federal government’s commitment to recognising sporting excellence.
Super Eagles head coach Eric Sekou Chelle has reiterated his determination to see Nigeria begin their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign on a winning note, describing the opening group match against Tanzania as a crucial foundation for the tournament.
The Super Eagles face the Taifa Stars this evening at the Complexe Sportif de Fès, with Chelle insisting that the focus is firmly on securing maximum points.
“This is a big game because it is the first game, and the first game is very important,” Chelle said during his pre-match press conference yesterday. “For sure, we want to win this game.”
The Franco- Malian tactician stressed that Nigeria’s ambition at the tournament must be evident from the outset, adding that the team is fully prepared to compete with confidence and purpose.
Responding to speculation that his future could depend on Nigeria’s AFCON outing, Chelle refused to be distracted, emphasizing his commitment to the task at hand.
“I’m only focused on the game and my players,” he said. “After the AFCON, we’ll have a meeting with the NFF. For now, we stay focused on the first game. We want to show our ambition.”
Chelle also played down concerns over the absence of some key defensive figures, expressing strong belief in the players available to him: “Of course I prefer that they’re here, but I’m with my players and I trust them. We have a big defense and we work a lot on that. When we want to defend, it’s not only about the defenders. Everybody is focused on that and we’re ready to play this game.”
He further underlined the importance of concentration and self-belief, warning against complacency. “The most important thing is to stay focused on us because the first opponent is us,” Chelle remarked.
Despite Nigeria’s recent failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Chelle insisted that past disappointments have no place in the team’s current mind-set.
“We have a tournament and we’re here to be ambitious,” he said. “I don’t have the time to think about what happened before. The most important thing is the next game.”
Nigeria will kick off their Group C campaign against Tanzania at 6:30 PM, before Tunisia and Uganda clash later in the day.
Super Eagles goalkeeper Francis Uzoho has reaffirmed his commitment to unity and collective success, pledging full support for Stanley Nwabali if he is selected to start Nigeria’s next Group match against Tanzania at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Nigeria face the Taifa Stars with competition still keen for the number one jersey, but Uzoho, who recently returned to the squad after nearly a year away, insisted that personal ambition will never override the team’s objectives. The Cyprus-based shot-stopper praised the spirit within the camp, noting that backing whoever gets the nod is key to success.
“When Nwabali was chosen to be first choice, I had to support him. That is what I will do if he’s still the one that will play,” Uzoho told Elegbete TV, underlining the togetherness driving the Super Eagles’ AFCON campaign.
In the same vein, defender Chidozie Awaziem has also put the team first, declaring his readiness to play in any position for Nigeria at the continental showpiece in Morocco. Known for his versatility, the former FC Porto man has featured across the backline for both club and country.
Awaziem explained that his deployment will depend on the coach’s tactical demands, stressing that his duty is to give his best wherever he is needed. “If the coach wants me to be a goalkeeper, I’m ready. If he wants me to be a striker, I’m ready,” he said with confidence.
While admitting that his preferred role remains at centre-back, Awaziem maintained that he is fully prepared to adapt for the good of the team. As the Super Eagles intensify preparations, the messages from Uzoho and Awaziem reflect a squad united in purpose as Nigeria chase continental glory at AFCON 2025.
Captain Wilfred Ndidi, has declared the Super Eagles focused and mentally ready to begin their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign this evening in Fes against the Tanzania’s Taifa Stars
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, the newly appointed skipper expressed confidence in the team’s readiness, stressing the importance of a strong start to the tournament.
“The spirit in the camp is very high, we’re very energised. This game is very important for us, it’s the game that sets the momentum. The guys are ready, everyone is ready; from the players to the staff, everyone is focused on this game,” Ndidi said.
Nigeria head into the encounter with an impressive AFCON group-stage record, having lost just once in their last 14 group matches, recording 10 wins and three draws. The Super Eagles have also remained unbeaten in their opening games in the last three AFCON editions.
Ndidi, who took over the captaincy following William Troost-Ekong’s international retirement, attributing his calm disposition to the support within the squad and guidance from the coaching crew.
“To be honest, there’s no pressure. We’ve got senior players in the team helping out, with the help of the coach and staff. I’ve been here learning from the former captain Troost-Ekong, so there’s no pressure at all,” he added.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s runners-up finish at the last AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire, the Besiktas midfielder said the team has drawn valuable lessons and is determined to go one step further this time.
“There are lots of lessons learnt from the previous AFCON. We set the standard getting to the final, but unfortunately we couldn’t get the trophy. We cannot go below that. The standards are already high, so the team is ready. This is an opportunity for us.”
Meanwhile, Super Eagles forward, Akor Adams is brimming with confidence ahead of his maiden AFCON appearance, adding the tournament offers a redemption following Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the FIFA World Cup.
“I am disappointed as every Nigerian and as every player in the team. But as in football and also in life you have to look forward, and we have another opportunity to redeem ourselves now,” Adams said.
The in-form striker, who earned his AFCON call-up after an impressive run in Europe, expressed gratitude for the chance to represent Nigeria on the continental stage.
“Not just for the AFCON, but being part of the Super Eagles for me it’s a blessing. I am grateful to God for it, I do not take it for granted. I try to give my best and I’m happy to be here.”
Adams believes preparation, not experience or conditions, will determine success in Morocco.
“There are no advantages compared to how much you prepare. It doesn’t matter the weather or being here a thousand times; if you prepare well, you will play well—and that’s what we’ve been doing.”
Nigeria will face Tanzania at the Complexe Sportif de Fès by 6:30 pm this evening , December 23, while the other Group C clash between Tunisia and Uganda will take place later in Rabat.
Ahead of their opening Group C match at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 against the Taifa Stars of Tanzania, the Super Eagles’ duo of Victor Osimhen and Alex Iwobi, are already spoiling for war, adding the on-going continental tournament in Morocco offers the team to make amend for their setback in the campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Last month, the Super Eagles missed the Africa’s sole ticket to next March Intercontinental Play-Offs following a penalty shootout loss to Congo DR in Morocco.
Speaking ahead of this evening’s encounter against Tanzania at the Complexe Sportif de Fès ,Osimhen made it clear that while the memory of recent failures still hurts, the players are focused and the training has been very intense. He said the team wants to send a strong message to everyone that they still have what it takes to win.
“We really understand their frustration,” Osimhen said, acknowledging the heartbreak suffered by supporters. “Now we have the opportunity to win back the hearts of our fans. This AFCON is a chance to rewrite our wrongs.”
Other key players shared this same energy with Iwobi pointing out that players are only remembered for the trophies they win, and the squad is working hard to achieve something special for the fans. Defensive players Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey also promised to give everything they have to make the country proud, while striker Cyriel Dessers expressed his joy at finally getting the chance to represent Nigeria in a major tournament.
The team will be led by new captain Wilfred Ndidi, who has been talking to both the young and old players to make sure everyone is on the same page and ready to correct past mistakes.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles will close out 2025 ranked 38th in the world, according to the latest FIFA rankings released yesterday.
The position represents stability for the team, who remained unchanged from the November rankings and retained their status as Africa’s sixth-best side.
Although the year delivered mixed results, Nigeria still ended 2025 six places higher than where they began, having opened the year ranked 44th globally. Their journey saw minor dips mid-year before a strong recovery in the final quarter.
The October rankings marked a turning point, with the Eagles jumping four places, followed by another three-place rise in November to settle at 38th . It remains their biggest sustained improvement since early 2024 after their AFCON silver-medal finish.
On the continental scale, Morocco continue to lead Africa, while Senegal, Algeria and Egypt complete the top five. Spain retained top spot globally, ahead of Argentina and France. The next FIFA ranking update is scheduled for January 19, 2026.
