Maduka Okoye has arrived in Uyo to complete the Super Eagles’ squad ahead of Friday’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar.

The Udinese goalkeeper landed in Uyo on Friday morning, according to Super Eagles media officer Promise Efoghe, bringing all 24 players called up by head coach Éric Chelle into camp.

Okoye’s late arrival had attracted attention in the build-up to the qualifiers, but Chelle said on Thursday that the goalkeeper had been granted permission to report late.

Despite joining the squad on matchday, Okoye is not expected to feature against Madagascar at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

His arrival nevertheless gives Chelle his full group as Nigeria begin their Group L campaign in Uyo.

The Super Eagles have been preparing for the fixture since the start of the week, with the coaching staff working with the players who arrived earlier in camp.

Nigeria face Madagascar at 5pm on Friday before travelling to Bissau for their second qualifying fixture against Guinea-Bissau next Tuesday.

The Super Eagles will be looking to start the campaign with a win at home before turning their attention to the second game of the qualifying window.