Allnigeriasoccer.com can exclusively report that Chippa United goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has been included in Nigeria’s final 28-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), despite recent doubts over his fitness and availability.

Nwabali, who has missed Chippa United’s last three league matches against Orlando Pirates, Siwelele FC, and Kaizer Chiefs, retains his place after featuring for Nigeria in the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs in November. 

He is joined on the final list by Amos Obasogie and Francis Uzoho, with the latter earning a recall following an improved run of form at Omonia Nicosia. 

Uzoho has kept one clean sheet and conceded only two goals in his last three UEFA Conference League appearances.

The selection, however, leaves no room for Udinese goalkeeper Maduka Okoye and former Flying Eagles shot-stopper Ebenezer Harcourt. 

While Harcourt’s omission comes as no surprise, Okoye’s exclusion is unexpected given his resurgence at Udinese after serving a betting-related suspension. 

Since returning, he has managed two clean sheets and conceded thirteen goals in eight Serie A matches.

Nigeria will compete in Group C alongside Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania.

The Super Eagles open their AFCON campaign against Tanzania on December 23, before facing Tunisia on December 27 and wrapping up the group stage against Uganda on December 30.

Adeyemi Adewale