FIFA approves UK-born goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo’s switch to represent Nigeria
The World’s football governing body FIFA has approved the application of United Kingdom-born goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo to switch his international allegiance from England to Nigeria.
An update on the FIFA Change of Association platform confirmed that the Wrexham player’s request to represent the Super Eagles was approved on Monday, ending speculation about his international commitment.
Born in London to Nigerian parents, the 24-year-old had represented England at youth level from under-15 to under-18 but he is now available to be selected for Nigeria’s senior team starting from the next international break.
Okonkwo has made 42 appearances in all competitions for Wrexham this season, keeping 11 clean sheets. He started his career at Arsenal Academy and went on loans before permanently joining Wrexham in 2024.
He becomes the latest member of the Eagles’ goalkeeper lineup, which includes first choice Stanley Nwabali, Udinese’s Maduka Okoye, and Omonia’s Francis Uzoho.
Nwabali has been without a club since leaving South African outfit Chippa United on mutual agreement in February.
Nigeria is set to play Portugal and Poland before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in June. The matches will serve as part of Eagles’ preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers starting later in September.
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