Jordan Obita 'so excited' for Uganda Cranes call-up

Photo by Hibernian FC Media

Jordan Obita, a seasoned defender with Hibernian in the Scottish Premiership, has officially joined the growing list of foreign-born players embracing their Ugandan heritage on the international stage.

“[I'm] so excited to be called up for the first time,” Obita shared on X, moments after receiving his first-ever invitation to join the Uganda Cranes squad. The 31-year-old will be part of the team for the upcoming international friendlies against Cameroon on June 6 and The Gambia on June 9, both to be played in Morocco.

Hibernian also marked the occasion with a congratulatory message: “Congratulations to Jordan Obita, who has been selected in the most recent Uganda team for their upcoming fixtures!”

The Uganda Cranes have increasingly turned to players from the diaspora to bolster their squad, a move that has yielded both success stories and setbacks.

While players such as Bevis Mugabi, Elio Capradossi and Elvis Bwomono have proudly represented the nation, others, including Uche Mubiru Ikpeazu have opted not to, despite multiple approaches. Obita’s decision to answer the call adds renewed optimism to the Cranes' ambitions.

Born on December 8, 1993, in Oxford to Ugandan parents, he built his career in England, progressing through Reading’s academy before going on to play for clubs such as Barnet, Gillingham, Portsmouth, Oldham, Oxford United, and Wycombe Wanderers.

He joined Hibernian in 2023 and has since made 61 appearances, scoring once. His football journey has been built on his versatility. Obita is capable of playing as a left-back, winger or central midfielder, offering valuable flexibility to head coach Paul Put as he sets about crafting a new-look national team.

Though Obita featured for England at U18, U19, and U20 levels, he didn't manage to earn a senior Three Lions cap and, therefore, remains eligible to represent Uganda.

His first international appearance is potentially just weeks away. If he features in either of the upcoming friendlies, it will mark not only a new chapter in his career but also a proud moment for a nation eager to welcome one of its own back home.