‘They treat me nice’ - Super Eagles new boy happy to team up with Osimhen and Lookman
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Super Eagles new boy happy to team up with Osimhen and Lookman || Imago

‘They treat me nice’ - Super Eagles new boy happy to team up with Osimhen and Lookman

Stephen Oladehinde 11:15 - 17.01.2026

New Super Eagles forward Salim Fago Lawal has shared his excitement about being part of Nigeria's squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Fago Lawal was selected by Eric Chelle to join the Super Eagles squad for his first official tournament, the ongoing AFCON competition.

Although the NK Istra player has not yet featured in the tournament, he stressed that his inclusion in the national team is a significant source of pride.

Lawal speaks on teammates

Lawal has been soaking up the experience in the dressing room, learning from established stars like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman.

"For me, I'm happy," Fago said. "It's not about getting a minute; the main thing is to be happy to be here, and that's it."

New Super Eagles forward Salim Fago Lawal || Imago
New Super Eagles forward Salim Fago Lawal || Imago

When asked about his relationship with the senior players, he praised their supportive and welcoming attitude.

"They treat me nice. They treat me like a brother," he explained. "They talk to me, they encourage me, and it's a nice experience to be with top players."

Osimhen and Lookman || Imago
Osimhen and Lookman || Imago

He added, "You know, players you see on TV, and then you get to share the same dressing room and pitch with them. It's a good experience for me."

Following a penalty shootout loss to Morocco that dashed their hopes of a fourth AFCON title, the Super Eagles are now preparing for their final match of the tournament—the third-place playoff against Egypt.

As the team readies for Saturday's clash, Lawal's positive experience and exposure to top-tier talent are seen as a crucial foundation for his future with the Super Eagles.