The Federation of Association Football has officially approved goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo’s change of international allegiance from England to Nigeria, making him eligible to represent the Super Eagles.
The approval was recorded on FIFA’s Change of Association platform on April 6, 2026, and now lists his new affiliation as the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), replacing The Football Association of England.
Born in Camden, London, to Nigerian parents, the 24-year-old shot-stopper began his football journey at Arsenal’s academy at age eight before progressing through England’s youth national teams between 2015 and 2019.
He featured for England at U-15, U-16, U-17 and U-18 levels but never played for the senior national team, making him eligible to switch allegiance under FIFA rules.
His eligibility adds further depth to Nigeria’s goalkeeping pool, which already includes Stanley Nwabali and Maduka Okoye, ahead of upcoming international competitions.
Okonkwo currently plays as first-choice goalkeeper for Wrexham in the EFL Championship following a permanent move from Arsenal. His performances this season have earned praise for consistency and key saves, strengthening his reputation as a rising option for Nigeria.
The switch reportedly followed discussions with Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle during the Unity Cup in London last year, although administrative delays previously ruled him out of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
