Egbochie Alexander 
New Telegraph reports that the achievement marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s football resurgence.
The Super Eagles have captured the global spotlight after FIFA praised Nigeria’s remarkable rise in the latest Men’s World Ranking.
Riding the momentum from their bronze medal finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, Nigeria jumped 12 places to 26th in the world.
This marks the country’s highest ranking in 16 years, matching levels last seen in 2010, and cements the Super Eagles’ status as the third-best team on the African continent.
Building Blocks For Victory
Nigeria’s rise in the FIFA rankings is no accident. Under head coach Eric Chelle, the Super Eagles were a model of consistency at AFCON 2025, winning six of their seven matches, with their only setback coming in a narrow semi-final defeat on penalties to hosts Morocco.
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FIFA’s official statement highlighted Nigeria’s remarkable resurgence, noting a gain of +79.09 points—the largest increase of any nation in the world during this ranking cycle.
A massive leap for @FecafootOfficie and @thenff 📈
Both Cameroon and Nigeria have soared 12 places in the latest FIFA/Coca-Cola Men’s World Ranking after an incredible start to 2026 🌍 pic.twitter.com/w0tkUHXY75
— FIFA (@FIFAcom) January 22, 2026
“A massive leap for @FecafootOfficie and @thenff. Both Cameroon and Nigeria have soared 12 places in the latest FIFA/Coca-Cola Men’s World Ranking after an incredible start to 2026.” — FIFA Official Statement
Ruling the Continent
Nigeria’s rise in the FIFA rankings has reshaped the hierarchy in West Africa and beyond. Jumping to 26th in the world, the Super Eagles have widened the gap between themselves and many continental rivals.
While Cameroon also climbed 12 places to 45th, Nigeria remains comfortably the top-ranked team in West Africa, ahead of traditional powerhouses like Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire.
The ranking boost is more than just bragging rights—it’s a strategic advantage. Higher FIFA standings often lead to more favourable seedings in tournament draws and World Cup qualifying cycles.
For a team laying the groundwork for AFCON 2027 and the next World Cup, FIFA’s recognition underscores that the Chelle Revolution is already delivering tangible results on the global stage.
