FIFA has reportedly approved the nationality switch of goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, officially allowing the former England youth international to represent Nigeria at senior level. The decision is seen as a major boost for the Super Eagles, with the highly rated 23-year-old now eligible for future international competitions.
Okonkwo was born in England to Nigerian parents and previously played for England at youth level, but FIFA regulations allowed him to change allegiance as he had not featured in a competitive senior match. His switch strengthens Nigeria’s goalkeeping options moving forward and has been welcomed positively by supporters and analysts alike. Officials of the Nigeria Football Federation have not yet confirmed when he could receive his first call-up.
Currently playing for Wrexham in the English Championship, Okonkwo has developed a strong reputation as a commanding and athletic goalkeeper. He is praised for his composure, reflexes, and confidence in the penalty area. He re-joined Wrexham permanently in June 2024 after initially arriving on loan from Arsenal, where he came through the Hale End academy before signing professional terms with the Gunners.
Since moving to North Wales, Okonkwo has become a key figure under manager Phil Parkinson, helping Wrexham climb the English football pyramid. During the 2024/25 season, he recorded the second-highest number of clean sheets in League One and finished with the best clean sheet percentage among goalkeepers who played at least five matches. With two promotions already achieved at the club, he is regarded as one of Wrexham’s smartest acquisitions despite still being young for a goalkeeper.
With FIFA’s approval now secured, Nigeria gain another high-quality option between the posts, and Okonkwo’s arrival adds further depth and competition to the national team setup.
