Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo switched his international allegiance from England to Nigeria. FIFA approved the change on April 6 2026 through its change of association platform. The decision made the 24 year old eligible to represent the Super Eagles at senior level.
Arthur Okonkwo was born in London to Nigerian parents. He represented England at youth levels from 2015 to 2019 including matches for the under 15 under 16 under 17 and under 18 teams. He last played for England under 18s in 2019 and received no further senior call ups.
Arthur Okonkwo held talks with Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle during the Unity Cup tournament last year. He then completed the necessary paperwork. The Nigeria Football Federation confirmed his eligibility after FIFA gave final clearance. The move ended months of speculation about his future international path.
Nigeria Football Federation director of communications Doctor Ademola Olajire welcomed the development. He stated the NFF is always excited to have another good player commit to Nigeria and provide an option in a particular position.
The federation viewed the switch as a boost to its goalkeeping department which already includes Stanley Nwabali Maduka Okoye and Francis Uzoho.
Arthur Okonkwo joined Wrexham permanently in 2024 after an earlier loan spell from Arsenal. He established himself as the first choice goalkeeper in the EFL Championship. The timing of the approval means he could feature in Nigeria’s June friendlies against Poland and Portugal.
