Nigeria will approach the 2027 African Cup of Nations tournament with high hopes after winning bronze medal at the 2025 edition and would be determined to finally win a fourth title and a first since 2013.
Although they are expected to enjoy a smooth qualification campaign, the Super Eagles could be further strengthened by the addition of new players, who are in line for a call-up ahead of the showpiece tournament in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
Here are five players that could make their debut for the three-time African champions before the tournament kicks off in June 2027.
Tosin Adarabioyo
Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo has already represented England at the youth level, but remains eligible to play for Nigeria and could be handed his debut ahead of the showpiece tournament next year.
The 28-year-old previously turned down a call-up to the Super Eagles earlier in his career, but has already made himself available for selection in the future.
Tosin is vastly experienced and would provide additional defensive cover for Nigeria, adding more quality to a backline that already includes the likes of Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi and Benjamin Fredrick.
Arthur Okonkwo
Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo could also make his debut for the Super Eagles in the coming months, having switched allegiances last year.
The goalkeeper had represented England, his country of birth, at the youth level but was also eligible to play for Nigeria by descent.
The 24-year-old could prove to be the Super Eagles’ long answer for safe hands in goal given his age and prospects and especially after recent unconvincing performances from first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.
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Justin Njinmah
Werder Bremen forward Justin Njinmah is another exciting player that could receive an invitation for the Super Eagles before the commencement of the 2027 AFCON tournament.
The German-born winger has previously expressed his desire to play for Nigeria and would be a very valuable addition.
Njinmah’s pace and dribbling skills on the wings would add another dimension to the attack and would provide enough depth for the Super Eagles’ ageing forwards.
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Carney Chukwuemeka
Highly-rated midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka remains on the radar of the Super Eagles and could be in contention for a debut very soon if the NFF succeeds in convincing him to switch allegiances to Nigeria.
The Borussia Dortmund midfielder has plenty of years to offer at just 22 years of age and would add more quality to the midfield, giving Nigeria an added advantage in their chances of ending their AFCON drought.
Chukwuemeka, Nwaneri and three other Nigerian-eligible young talents
Kevin Martins
Monza forward Kevin Martins could feel tempted by the chance to follow in the footsteps of his father, Obafemi Martins and wear the Super Eagles shirt.
While he has represented Italy at Under-15 level, the young forward remains eligible to play for Nigeria and could decide to pledge his future.
