Substitute Tolu Arokodare emerged as the match-winner, scoring twice in the second half to secure all three points for Nigeria after both teams went into the interval level at 1–1.
The hosts made a flying start, taking the lead in the second minute through Alhassan Yusuf, who finished off a move created by Ademola Lookman.
Tanzania gradually settled into the contest and drew level in the 32nd minute when Alphonce Msanga converted a pass from N. Miroshi to make it 1–1.
Both sides had opportunities to take the lead before the break, but neither could find the net again as the first half ended in a stalemate.
Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle responded with two changes at half-time, bringing on Arokodare for Tochukwu Nnadi and Moses Usor for goalscorer Yusuf.
The changes immediately paid dividends as Arokodare restored Nigeria’s advantage in the 52nd minute, turning home a pass from captain Wilfred Ndidi.
The forward doubled his tally eight minutes later, finishing a move initiated by fellow substitute Usor to give the Super Eagles a commanding 3–1 lead.
Tanzania attempted to fight their way back into the match, making several substitutions, including a triple change in the 66th minute. However, Nigeria remained organised and comfortably protected their advantage.
Chelle introduced Fisayo Dele-Bashiru for Akor Adams in the 78th minute, while Semi Ajayi replaced Ola Aina in stoppage time as the hosts saw out the contest.
The result moves Nigeria to six points in Group L, one behind leaders Guinea-Bissau, who have seven points. Madagascar sit third with two points, while Tanzania occupy fourth place with one point.
Although Tanzania have already qualified for the 2027 AFCON as co-hosts alongside Kenya and Uganda, they remain involved in the qualifying competition.
The Super Eagles began their campaign with a 2–1 win over Madagascar before suffering a disappointing 3–0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in September.
For Friday’s encounter, Nigeria were without injured striker Victor Osimhen and unavailable goalkeeper Maduka Okoye. Benjamin Fredrick partnered Calvin Bassey in central defence, while Abdullahi Bewene was also handed a starting opportunity.
Ndidi captained the side, with Nnadi making his home debut for the national team.
Nigeria dominated possession with 65 per cent of the ball and registered seven shots on target from 13 attempts. Tanzania, meanwhile, managed two shots on target from eight efforts.
The Super Eagles will now turn their attention to the return fixture against Tanzania, scheduled for Tuesday, 17 November, in Zanzibar, as they seek to maintain their push for qualification.
