Nigeria recall Ola Aina as new right-back misses AFCON 2027 qualifiers

Nigeria have recalled Nottingham Forest right-back Ola Aina for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, while Christian Akpan has been omitted from Eric Chelle’s selection. Akpan, who plays for Genk, made his Nigeria debut against Portugal during the summer international break.

The Super Eagles are in Group L with Madagascar, Guinea-Bissau and Tanzania, one of the co-hosts of the 2027 AFCON. The tournament is scheduled to take place in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania from June 19 to July 17, 2027.

Nigeria’s qualifying programme begins on September 21, 2026, with the Super Eagles set to host Madagascar two days later in Uyo. The fixture will open their Group L campaign on home soil.

Aina’s return follows his recovery to fitness and gives Chelle an experienced option at right-back. His inclusion, however, leaves no place in the squad for Akpan despite the Genk defender’s first senior appearance for Nigeria against Portugal.

The remaining decision concerns the player who will serve as Aina’s deputy. Abdullahi Bewene, Ryan Alebiosu and Bright Osayi-Samuel are competing for that position, leaving Chelle with three candidates for one place.

Nigeria’s selection therefore combines Aina’s return with an unresolved back-up role and the absence of the recently introduced Akpan. Chelle will take the squad into a group that also includes Guinea-Bissau and Tanzania, with qualification matches beginning next year.