Mikel’s abilities had triggered a bidding war between English sides Manchester United and Chelsea to acquire his services.

Eguavoen has also called teenagers Sani Kaita and Obinna Nsofor in his final squad for the ACN that takes place from the 20th of January until February 10th.

West Bromwich Albion striker Nwankwo Kanu will feature in the African tournament despite concerns over a head injury sustained in a recent FA Cup clash.

Nigeria were drawn in Group D with Ghana, Senegal and Zimbabwe.

Nigeria Squad:

Goalkeepers: Dele Aiyegnuba (Enyimba), Austin Ejide (Etoile Sahel, Tunisia), Vincent Enyeama (Bnei Yehuda Tel Aviv, Israel)

Defenders: Joseph Enakarhire (Dinamo Moscow, Russia), Obinna Nwaneri (Esperance, Tunisia), Chidi Odiah (CSKA Moscow, Russia), Taye Taiwoo (Olympique Marseille, France), Joseph Yobo (Everton, England)

Midfielders: Yusuf Ayila (Dinamo Kyiv, Ukraine), Sani Kaita (Sparta Rotterdam, Netherlands), Garba Lawal (Iraklis, Greece), Paul Obiefule (Viborg, Denmark), John Obi Mikel (Lyn Oslo, Norway), Christian Obodo (Udinese, Italy), Austin Okocha (Bolton Wanderers, England), Wilson Oruma (Olympique Marseille, France)

Strikers: Julius Aghahowa (Shakhtar Donetsk, Ukraine), Nwankwo Kanu (West Bromwich Albion, England), Stephen Makinwa (Palermo, Italy), Obafemi Martins (Inter Milan, Italy), Obinna Nsofor (Chievo Verona, Italy), Peter Odemwingie (Lille, France), John Utaka (Stade Rennes, France)