The Super Eagles’ goalkeeping department has received a boost following FIFA’s official clearance for Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo to represent Nigeria.

​Born in London to Nigerian parents, Okonkwo represented England at the youth level between 2015 and 2019, appearing for the U-15, U-16, U-17, and U-18 teams.

🚨🚨FIFA has officially approved Arthur Okonkwo’s international nationality switch from England to Nigeria, making the 24 year old Wrexham goalkeeper eligible to represent the Super Eagles at senior level. 🇳🇬⚽️ 🦅🔥 pic.twitter.com/nxKWQcooDy

— Super Eagles Supporters Club (@official_esclub) February 25, 2026

FIFA approved the goalkeeper’s switch of allegiance from England to Nigeria in January 2026, successfully concluding the eligibility process.

​Okonkwo’s decision followed discussions with Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle during the Unity Cup in London last year.

However, administrative delays ultimately prevented his participation in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON ) in Morocco.

His clearance arrives amid growing uncertainty surrounding first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who is currently without a club.

​Eligible for March international window

​The 24-year-old is now eligible for selection ahead of the March international window, where the Super Eagles will compete in a four-nation invitational tournament in Amman, Jordan.

​Nigeria faces Iran on March 27 before taking on the hosts, Jordan, four days later at the Amman International Stadium. The team is expected to open its training camp on March 24.

​The former Arsenal goalkeeper has been a mainstay for Wrexham this season, stepping into the starting lineup after Danny Ward sustained an elbow injury. Okonkwo has since recorded six clean sheets in 20 league appearances this season.

Arthur Okonkwo Nigeria Eligibility Confirmed as FIFA Clears Wrexham Goalkeeper

The Super Eagles’ goalkeeping department has received a significant boost following FIFA’s official approval of Arthur Okonkwo’s international nationality switch from England to Nigeria.

The 24-year-old Wrexham goalkeeper is now eligible to represent Nigeria at senior level after completing the formal change of allegiance process in January 2026.

Arthur Okonkwo Nigeria Eligibility Strengthens Super Eagles Options

Born in London to Nigerian parents, Okonkwo previously represented England at youth level between 2015 and 2019. During that period, he featured for the U-15, U-16, U-17, and U-18 national teams.

However, he had not made a senior competitive appearance for England, allowing him to apply for a nationality switch under FIFA regulations.

The approval process concluded successfully earlier this year, officially making him available for selection.

His decision reportedly followed conversations with Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle during the Unity Cup in London. The discussions highlighted Nigeria’s long-term vision and the opportunity for Okonkwo to play a central role in the team’s future.

Administrative Delays and AFCON Absence

Although the goalkeeper had expressed his commitment earlier, administrative delays prevented him from participating in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Morocco.

The timing of FIFA’s final clearance means he now enters the national team pool at a crucial period, as Nigeria prepares for upcoming international fixtures.

His inclusion comes amid uncertainty surrounding current first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who is currently without a club. The lack of club football for Nwabali has raised concerns about match fitness and long-term stability in the position.

Okonkwo’s eligibility therefore provides competition and depth within the squad.

Eligible for March International Window

With the paperwork finalized, the former Arsenal academy product is eligible for selection during the March international window.

Nigeria will participate in a four-nation invitational tournament in Amman, Jordan. The Super Eagles are scheduled to face Iran on March 27 before taking on hosts Jordan four days later at the Amman International Stadium.

The national team is expected to open camp on March 24, giving the coaching staff an opportunity to assess squad readiness and tactical adjustments.

If selected, this tournament could mark Okonkwo’s senior debut for Nigeria.

Club Form at Wrexham

At club level, Okonkwo has enjoyed a productive season with Wrexham. After stepping into the starting lineup following an elbow injury to Danny Ward, he has cemented his position as first-choice goalkeeper.

So far this season, he has recorded six clean sheets in 20 league appearances, demonstrating consistency and composure between the posts.

His shot-stopping ability, distribution skills and commanding presence in the penalty area have drawn praise. Regular playing time in a competitive league environment strengthens his case for international selection.

What This Means for Nigeria

The addition of Okonkwo introduces healthy competition within the Super Eagles’ goalkeeping unit.

Nigeria has historically produced talented goalkeepers, and squad depth remains essential as the team prepares for future continental and global tournaments.

With 2026 World Cup qualification campaigns ongoing and AFCON ambitions intact, ensuring strong options in every position is critical.

The clearance also reflects Nigeria’s continued efforts to attract dual-national players who are eligible to represent the country at senior level.