I Can’t Wait –Okonkwo Opens Up On Playing For Nigeria

Wrexham first‑choice goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo has said he cannot wait to make his debut for Nigeria’s Super Eagles.

FIFA confirmed Okonkwo’s change of international allegiance from England to Nigeria, making him eligible to play for the Super Eagles. The approval was recorded on FIFA’s Change of Association platform on 6 April 2026.

The 24‑year‑old represented England at youth level between 2015 and 2019, appearing for the U‑15, U‑16, U‑17 and U‑18 teams. He has never played for the senior Three Lions side, so the switch is permissible under FIFA eligibility rules.

Okonkwo is expected to be named in the Super Eagles squad for this month’s Unity Cup in London.

Speaking about the switch, Okonkwo said he is delighted and looking forward to featuring for the three‑time Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champions.

Also Read: Okonkwo Has Plenty To Prove In Eagles – Agu

“It’s an honour to be given the opportunity to play for your country, I’m excited I can’t wait,” Okonkwo told NFF TV. “I’ve been wanting this moment for quite a while now and to finally have the opportunity is incredible.”

Born in Camden, London, to Nigerian parents, Okonkwo began his career at Hampstead Academy before moving to Lindus Park. He joined the Arsenal academy at eight in 2009.

He progressed quickly through Arsenal’s ranks, appearing on the bench for an under‑18 match while registered with the under‑15 side. He debuted for the under‑23 team at 17. In the 2018‑19 season he was runner‑up in the U18 Premier League and was already on the bench for the first team. By the 2019‑20 campaign he was third in line for goal‑keeping duties.

Okonkwo signed a senior contract with Arsenal in early July 2021, wearing number 33 for the first team, and made his senior debut on 13 July 2021 in a friendly against Hibernian.

He left Arsenal on 30 June 2024 when his contract expired.

By James Agberebi