Nottingham Forest defender, Ola Aina has handed Nigeria a major boost ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament after stepping up his recovery from a long-term hamstring injury.

The Super Eagles star, who has been out since September, has now returned to light training on the grass as his comeback edges closer.

Aina’s return comes at a crucial moment for Forest and Nigeria. Forest have missed his dynamism on the flanks, while Nigeria will welcome any positive injury news ahead of the continental showpiece.

Aina is now in the advanced stages of recovery after undergoing surgery for a hamstring injury. Photos circulating on the social media suggest that the Nigeria international has resumed a pitch-based work at Nottingham Forest which marks his first significant step toward a full return.

His rehabilitation has been closely monitored, and Forest expect him to push toward full recovery between December and early 2026, although, it remains to be seen if he will be allowed to join the Super Eagles squad if he is not fully fit.

Aina sustained the hamstring injury while on international duty with the Super Eagles in September 2025. He was forced off and later underwent surgery after scans confirmed the severity of the tear. The injury ruled him out for several months, with initial estimates placing his absence at around three months.

The setback halted his strong start to the season, during which he had been a regular for Nottingham Forest. His absence created a notable gap in the squad’s defensive structure, and forced Dyche to readjust his backline options.

Aina returning to on-grass training is a major positive for Nigeria. With AFCON 2025 approaching, the Super Eagles need depth, and fitness across the defensive line, especially after recent injury-related disruptions within the team.

If Aina continues his recovery at the current pace, he stands a strong chance of being available for selection for the AFCON finals.

His return would also ease pressure on Nigeria’s defensive setup and give Eric Chelle a more balanced squad heading into the tournament.