Former Arsenal goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo’s proposed international switch to Nigeria national football team remains incomplete, despite rising expectations that the shot-stopper could soon link up with the Super Eagles.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has clarified that the paperwork required for his change of sporting nationality is still being processed and has not yet been finalised by FIFA.
Recent speculation had suggested that the former Arsenal goalkeeper was already cleared to represent Nigeria.
However, senior NFF officials have now tempered those claims, stressing that no official approval has been granted.
NFF Head of International Competitions, Dayo Enebi, confirmed that Okonkwo’s case remains under review by the relevant authorities.
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“The process is still ongoing and has not been completed yet,” Enebi told Footy Africa.
“Okonkwo is one we are looking at, but as of today, his international switch has not been concluded.”
He added that the goalkeeper is among several players being monitored as the coaching crew works to strengthen key areas of the squad.
“I can confirm that Okonkwo is definitely one of the players being primed to switch to Nigeria even though the switch is still in progress.
“From what I know, there are others too, as the coaching crew is looking to strengthen areas where reinforcements are needed,” Enebi said.
The NFF official further hinted that Okonkwo could be invited to train with the squad ahead of the upcoming tournament in Amman, even if his documentation is not completed in time.
“Don’t forget Ola Aina is back, and Frederick will return as well. If we add these players to the three or four new faces we hope to introduce, the team can only get stronger.
“I think the coach will invite Okonkwo for the tournament in Amman. It is not an official competition, so even if his switch is not completed by then, he can still come to train and familiarise himself with the team.”
Okonkwo, who has previously represented England at youth level, remains ineligible to feature in competitive matches for Nigeria until FIFA formally approves his request to change his sporting nationality.
