In a significant boost for Nigerian football's future, a highly-rated teenage defender has pledged his international allegiance to the Super Eagles. Kairi Kebetu, a 16-year-old prospect at English Premier League side Aston Villa, has chosen to represent Nigeria, despite being eligible for England and Jamaica.
Kebetu's Decision and Footballing Profile
The talented youngster, who joined Aston Villa at the Under-9 level, has decided to honour his African roots. His choice comes as he approaches the end of his schoolboy contract with Villa, a period during which he has attracted fresh offers due to his impressive performances. Kebetu has consistently played above his age group, even featuring for Villa's Under-17 side against rivals like Liverpool.
His primary footballing ambition has been to wear the green and white of Nigeria at the youth level, specifically targeting appearances for the Golden Eaglets (U17) and Flying Eagles (U20). Versatility is a key part of his game; he is described as a ball-playing centre-back who is also a tough tackler and can operate effectively as a right-back.
NFF's Recruitment Drive and Contrasting Choices
Kebetu's decision aligns with a concerted effort by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to recruit more players of Nigerian descent. This strategy is evident in the current provisional squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which includes numerous stars born or raised abroad, such as Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, and Calvin Bassey.
However, not every eligible player is choosing Nigeria. In a contrasting development, former Nigeria U20 invitee Owen Goodman has accepted a call-up to the Canadian senior national team. Born in London to Nigerian parents, the Crystal Palace goalkeeper had previously met with NFF President Ibrahim Gusau and was invited to the Flying Eagles camp. Despite this, he has now clarified his desire to represent Canada at the senior level.
Wider Context of Player Allegiance
The narrative of dual-nationality players making their choice is a recurring theme. In another instance, defender Ime Okon, who plays for Hannover 96 in Germany, has been named in South Africa's squad for AFCON 2025. Okon, born in Johannesburg to a Nigerian father and a South African mother, opted to represent his country of birth.
Kairi Kebetu's commitment is therefore a welcome positive for Nigerian football supporters, signaling the continued appeal of the Super Eagles to young talents in the diaspora. His development at a top Premier League academy marks him as one to watch for the national team's future campaigns.
