Nigeria duo Onyemaechi and Ajayi leave Super Eagles camp ahead of Jordan clash

Nigeria have been hit with a brief disruption in their training camp in Turkey, as defenders Bruno Onyemaechi and Semi Ajayi were both excused from the squad on compassionate grounds.

Onyemaechi was granted permission to leave camp to be with his partner, who recently gave birth to their first child—a moment the coaching staff deemed important enough to allow the left-back to attend without hesitation. The defender’s temporary absence is understood to be a personal milestone, and he is expected to rejoin the squad when appropriate.

Ajayi, who plays for Hull City AFC, also missed a training session before being excused to attend to personal matters. While details were not publicly disclosed, the decision reflects the team’s support for players’ wellbeing beyond the pitch.

Despite losing two important defensive options, head coach Eric Chelle has chosen not to call up replacements at this stage. Instead, he will continue preparations with the remaining players in camp, focusing on maintaining continuity and testing available combinations within the squad.

The Super Eagles are using the camp to fine-tune their tactical approach and build cohesion ahead of upcoming fixtures. While the absence of Onyemaechi and Ajayi is a setback in terms of personnel, it also presents an opportunity for other defenders to step up and stake their claim for a place in the starting lineup.

For Chelle, the priority remains clear: maintaining rhythm, sharpening defensive organization, and ensuring the squad remains competitive despite temporary absences. As preparations continue, all eyes will be on how the team adapts and which players seize the chance to impress in the duo’s absence.