Lookman, Dessers arrive Super Eagles camp as Nigeria await Osimhen ahead of key World Cup qualifiers

Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying camp in Uyo is filling fast, with Ademola Lookman and Cyriel Dessers the latest arrivals as the Super Eagles step up preparations for two defining fixtures, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Atalanta forward and new Panathinaikos signing checked in on Wednesday morning, pushing the squad count to 16. Dessers’ delay came after sealing his deadline-day switch from Rangers to Greece, while Lookman saw a potential move to Inter blocked by his club.

They join a growing group that already includes Alex Iwobi, Ola Aina, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, who all landed earlier on Tuesday. Fulham midfielder Iwobi has been in sharp form this season, Aina remains a key figure at Nottingham Forest, while Dele-Bashiru is beginning to shine at Lazio.

Midfield reinforcements Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka are also in camp. Ndidi, now at Besiktas after leaving Leicester City, adds leadership, while Brentford’s Onyeka brings drive and consistency after a strong start to the Premier League campaign.

Back at The Nest of Champions, as preparation for our September Doubleheader is under way.#SoarSuperEagles #Naija4thewin pic.twitter.com/5X2K8n4M7w

— Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) September 3, 2025

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Others already involved include captain William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Moses Simon, Chidozie Awaziem, Felix Agu, Bruno Onyemaechi, Amas Obasogie, and teenager Benjamin Frederick.

After raising concerns that he could miss the games due to injury, Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali arrived late Tuesday night to lift numbers further.

Still missing are Nigeria’s biggest names.

Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen, AC Milan winger Samuel Chukwueze, Wolves’ new signing Tolu Arokodare, and Christantus Uche are expected to also arrive before Wednesday's training session.

Nigeria sit fourth in Group C with just one win in six. South Africa lead with 13 points, while Rwanda and Benin are ahead of the Super Eagles on eight. Only the group winner is guaranteed a ticket to the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Eric Chelle’s side host Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Saturday before flying to Bloemfontein for Tuesday’s clash with South Africa. With the margins so fine, back-to-back victories are non-negotiable if Nigeria are to claw their way back into contention.