In a significant development for African football, Nigerian-eligible defender Ime Okon has officially declared his international allegiance to South Africa, putting an end to years of speculation about his future.
Defender Makes His Choice Clear
The 21-year-old Hannover 96 star, who plays in Germany's Bundesliga 2, confirmed his commitment to Bafana Bafana despite having strong connections to Nigeria through his father. Born in Johannesburg to a South African mother and Nigerian father, Okon had been at the center of an international tug-of-war between the two football-loving nations.
In a recent interview with African Insider, Okon addressed the ongoing debate about his international future with clarity and conviction. "People always talk, but at the end of the day, I know where my heart is," the defender stated emphatically.
He further explained his decision by adding, "I played for South Africa at the COSAFA Cup and I scored, and South Africa is everything to me. I don't know anything else besides South Africa. Even if Nigeria can call me up, SA is home, that's all I have to say."
COSAFA Cup Performance Seals Decision
Okon's commitment comes after an impressive performance during the 2024 COSAFA Cup, where he demonstrated his value to the South African national team. The young defender scored against Zimbabwe and featured in every match throughout the tournament, helping Bafana Bafana reach the final.
His international journey with South Africa began in 2023 when national team coach Hugo Broos included him in a provisional squad. Since then, Okon has developed into one of Africa's most promising defensive talents, catching the attention of football enthusiasts across the continent.
Timing Crucial for AFCON 2025 Preparations
Okon's reaffirmation of loyalty comes at a critical moment as Broos prepares his final squad list for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. Although the defender withdrew from recent World Cup qualifiers due to injury, he remains an essential component of South Africa's defensive strategy for the upcoming continental tournament.
The rising star began his professional career at SuperSport United in South Africa before making the move to European football with Hannover 96 earlier in 2025. His development in Germany has significantly elevated his profile, establishing him as one of South Africa's most promising young defenders.
Meanwhile, Nigeria's Super Eagles appear well-equipped to move forward without Okon, given their considerable depth in central defense. Coach Eric Chelle is expected to rely on established defenders including Semi Ajayi, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, and Chidozie Awaziem for AFCON 2025.
The Nigerian squad has been further affected by Benjamin Fredrick's recent injury, which rules the young defender out of consideration for the tournament. South Africa qualified for AFCON 2025 after topping Group K in the qualifying series, which included Uganda and Congo Republic.
