By Micah Jonah, April 8, 2026
FIFA has officially approved the international allegiance switch of Arthur Okonkwo from England to Nigeria, making the Wrexham goalkeeper eligible to represent the Super Eagles.
Okonkwo, who was born in London to Nigerian parents, previously represented England at youth levels from Under-15 to Under-18 but never made an appearance for the senior national team. His switch was confirmed on FIFA’s change of association platform on Monday.
The 24-year-old now joins an already competitive goalkeeping department in the Nigerian national team, which includes Stanley Nwabali, Maduka Okoye and Francis Uzoho.
Okonkwo becomes one of several players this year to switch international allegiance from England to other countries, reflecting a growing trend among dual-nationality players seeking opportunities at senior level.
A product of Arsenal’s youth academy, Okonkwo gained early experience through loan spells at Crewe Alexandra and Sturm Graz before moving to Wrexham AFC in 2023. The move was made permanent a year later.
Since joining Wrexham, he has established himself as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper, making over 100 appearances, playing a key role in their recent promotions. This season alone, he has featured in 42 matches across all competitions, recording 10 clean sheets in the Championship.
His expected inclusion in the Super Eagles squad could see him link up with fellow former Arsenal academy players Alex Iwobi and Semi Ajayi in upcoming international fixtures.
Nigeria is scheduled to play friendly matches against India and Jamaica in the 2026 Unity Cup in May, followed by games against Poland and Portugal in June, providing Okonkwo with an opportunity to compete for his senior debut.
The Super Eagles recently finished third at the Africa Cup of Nations and narrowly missed out on qualification for the next FIFA World Cup after losing the African play-off final to DR Congo.
At club level, Wrexham currently sit sixth in the Championship as they pursue a fourth consecutive promotion, with Okonkwo playing a central role in their campaign.
