Three-time African champions, the Super Eagles, has moved six places in the latest World football governing body, FIFA, monthly rankingon Thursday.
Nigeria are now 61st in the world, but still very much outside the Top 5 in Africa at No 12 behind Algeria, Cote d’ Ivoire, Ghana, Senegal, Egypt, Tunisia, Cape Verde, Congo DR, Guinea, Cameroon and Congo.
It is however believed that the Top 5 in the continental ratings – Algeria, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Senegal and Egypt – will enjoy a better chance of making Pot A of the World Cup draw on June 24 in Cairo, Egypt.
Next week, FIFA will announce the lucky five top seeds.
Meanwhile, Argentina and Belgium held onto first and second place respectively on the latest ranking, while a flurry of international matches – largely among European teams focused on their final preparations for the UEFA EURO 2016 taking place from 10 June to 10 July – resulted in a number of shifts in the top 50 this month.