AFCON 2025
Chibuike Nwaiwu has been handed a late call-up to the Super Eagles following the withdrawal of Calvin Bassey, who is out with a back injury.
The decision has put the spotlight on a player many Nigerian fans are only just hearing about. While the invitation comes as a replacement, it shows growing confidence in the defender’s recent performances at club level.
Here are three things to know about him.
He has worked his way up from the NPFL
The 22-year-old Nwaiwu is not a product of sudden fame. He came through the domestic league, playing for Heartland before moving to Enyimba, where he won the league title in 2023.
His performances there earned him a move abroad. He joined Wolfsberger AC in Austria and later secured a transfer to Trabzonspor in Turkey where he has currently scored 2 Goals since joining the club in January. Each step has come with more responsibility, and his development has been steady.
Chibuike Nwaiwu is comfortable in more than one role
Primarily a centre-back, Nwaiwu can also play as a right-back or in defensive midfield.
1,93m tall makes him strong in the air and calm when playing out from the back. That ability to fit into different roles makes him a useful option, especially in a squad dealing with injuries and changes.
This is a real chance to break into the team
His call-up may be because of Bassey’s absence, but it still gives him an opening.
The upcoming matches will give the coaching staff a closer look at him. If he settles quickly and performs well, he could remain part of the squad beyond this window.
For now, Nwaiwu comes as a replacement for Calvin Bassey. What he does with this opportunity will decide how long he stays in the picture.
