RismadarVoice Reporters
September 24, 2026
Super Eagles striker Akor Adams says Nigeria’s ambition to become Africa’s leading football team must begin with a strong performance in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.
Adams said the upcoming qualifiers would provide an early test of the Super Eagles’ ambitions under head coach Éric Chelle and establish the standard expected of the team.
“It’s very important because I think it sets the mark for what we want to do. If we want to be the best team in Africa, it starts from the qualification, as the coach has clearly said. And that is what we aim to achieve as well,” Adams said in an interview published on Thursday.
Chelle recently named his squad for the AFCON qualifiers and an international friendly against Russia, handing several players their first invitations to the senior national team.
Adams welcomed the new additions, saying competition for places would strengthen the Super Eagles.
“It’s always good to see that we have players who are also doing well, and who can get the chance to be in the team. Whatever makes us better, that’s the goal,” he said.
He added that players who earn their places through their performances would be welcomed into the squad as Nigeria seeks to build a stronger national team.
Adams, who returned to the Super Eagles for the international window, described representing Nigeria as a privilege.
“It feels good. It’s also a privilege to be back with the group, and yeah, we’re happy to be back,” he said.
The striker also called on Nigerians to remain optimistic and support the team throughout the qualifying campaign.
“Be optimistic, come out in good support and in good faith in the team, because we know you guys support us. And we’ll try to give our best on the pitch,” Adams added.
Nigeria will begin its campaign for a place at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations with Chelle seeking a strong start to the qualifying series.
