Arthur Okonkwo has been cleared to represent Nigeria at international level after FIFA approved his request to change allegiance.
The Wrexham goalkeeper previously featured for England’s youth teams, with his last appearance coming for the U18s in 2019. Now 24, Okonkwo is eligible to play senior international football for the Super Eagles following the latest ruling.
According to Nigerian outlet P.M. News, the Arsenal academy product qualified for the switch under FIFA regulations, having been born in England to Nigerian parents.
The approval opens the door for him to feature for Nigeria in upcoming competitions, although the timing of his debut remains uncertain.
Nigeria are currently taking part in the Africa Cup of Nations, while qualification for the 2027 edition is scheduled to run between March and November.
The Super Eagles, however, will not be at next summer’s World Cup after losing their qualification play-off to DR Congo.
Rise at Wrexham
Okonkwo’s club career has continued to gather momentum in recent seasons. After loan spells with Crewe Alexandra and Austrian side Sturm Graz, he joined Wrexham on loan for the 2023/24 campaign following Ben Foster’s retirement.
He played a key role as the Red Dragons finished second in League Two, earning promotion. His impressive performances convinced the club to secure his services permanently ahead of the following season.
Since then, Okonkwo has been ever-present between the posts as Wrexham achieved a second successive promotion, climbing from League One into the Championship.
He recorded 19 clean sheets in 33 league appearances during that campaign, conceding just 23 goals.
This season, the goalkeeper has made 20 Championship appearances, keeping six clean sheets as Wrexham sit 11th on the table.
After a five-game winless run, the Welsh side have bounced back with victories over Sheffield United and Preston North End.
Wrexham are now just four points off the play-off places as they continue to chase what would be a remarkable fourth consecutive promotion.
