NFF Clarifies Status of Ex-Arsenal Goalkeeper’s Nationality Switch Ahead of March Friendlies
The Nigeria Football Federation has provided a detailed clarification regarding the status of former Arsenal goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo's nationality switch to represent the Super Eagles of Nigeria at the senior international level. This announcement comes amid widespread media reports claiming that FIFA has already approved the switch, which the NFF has now officially denied.
Ongoing Process for Okonkwo's International Switch
Through its Head of International Competitions, Dayo Enebi, the NFF confirmed that Okonkwo's nationality switch is currently in progress but has not yet been finalized by FIFA. Enebi emphasized that while the goalkeeper has expressed his intention to play for Nigeria, the administrative process remains incomplete.
"The process is still ongoing and has not been completed yet. Okonkwo is one we are looking at, but as of today, his international switch has not been concluded," Enebi stated in an interview with Footy Africa. "I can confirm that Okonkwo is definitely one of the players being primed to switch to Nigeria, even though the switch is still in progress."
Potential Invitation for March Tournament
The NFF has revealed that the Super Eagles will participate in a four-nation invitational tournament in Amman during March, facing Iran on March 27 and Jordan on March 31. Enebi indicated that head coach Eric Chelle might invite Okonkwo to train with the team during this tournament, even if his switch hasn't been finalized, since the matches are not official FIFA competitions.
"I think the coach will invite Okonkwo for the tournament in Amman. It is not an official competition, so even if his switch is not completed by then, he can still come to train and familiarise himself with the team," Enebi explained.
Strategic Importance for Super Eagles Goalkeeping
Arthur Okonkwo's potential switch holds significant strategic importance for the Super Eagles, particularly given current challenges in the goalkeeping department. The team faces uncertainties with Stanley Nwabali's unemployed status, Amas Obasogie's suspension in Tanzania, and Maduka Okoye's unclear future. Okonkwo, who has gained recognition at Wrexham after leaving Arsenal, could provide much-needed reinforcement.
NFF's Broader Dual-Nationality Recruitment Efforts
The NFF has intensified efforts in recent years to recruit players with multiple nationalities to represent Nigeria, achieving mixed results. Successful cases include former captain William Troost-Ekong, 2024 African Footballer of the Year Ademola Lookman, and nearly 100-cap star Alex Iwobi. However, the federation has also experienced setbacks with players like Eberechi Eze, Tammy Abraham, Fikayo Tomori, and Noah Atubolu choosing other nations.
Additionally, some players who switched nationality have struggled to establish themselves in the team, including Chuba Akpom and Kevin Akpoguma. Despite these challenges, the NFF remains committed to identifying and recruiting talented dual-nationality players to strengthen the national team.
Coach Chelle's Squad Planning for Friendlies
Eric Chelle is expected to invite new players to the Super Eagles squad for the upcoming friendly matches against Iran and Jordan in Amman. While Okonkwo was initially named among potential invitees, it is now anticipated that if invited, he would primarily participate in training sessions to familiarize himself with the team rather than feature in matches, pending the completion of his nationality switch.
The NFF's clarification provides transparency regarding Okonkwo's status and underscores the ongoing administrative processes required for international player transfers. As the March friendlies approach, Nigerian football fans will be watching closely for developments in this significant potential addition to the Super Eagles roster.
