Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo has officially been cleared to play for Nigeria following FIFA’s approval of his request to change international allegiance from England.
The change was recorded on April 6, 2026, on FIFA’s official Change of Association register, updating his nationality to the Nigeria Football Federation.
Born in Camden to Nigerian parents, Okonkwo previously represented England across multiple youth levels, including the Under-18 team during his time at Arsenal. Between 2015 and 2019, he featured for England’s U-15, U-16, U-17, and U-18 sides but never earned a senior cap, making him eligible for a switch under FIFA regulations.
The 24-year-old joined Wrexham AFC on loan in 2023 before completing a permanent move in 2024. Since then, he has become the club’s first-choice goalkeeper in the EFL Championship, delivering a series of standout performances that have enhanced Wrexham’s competitiveness and drawn attention from Nigeria’s national team selectors.
Okonkwo’s decision follows earlier contact with Eric Chelle during the Unity Cup in London. Paperwork delays, however, prevented his participation in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
His inclusion is now expected to bolster Nigeria’s goalkeeping options alongside Stanley Nwabali, Maduka Okoye, and Francis Uzoho.
What you should know
Arthur Okonkwo has officially switched international allegiance from England to Nigeria, following FIFA approval.
The 24-year-old Wrexham goalkeeper previously played for England’s youth teams but never at senior level.
His performances in the EFL Championship have earned him a call-up to strengthen Nigeria’s goalkeeping department ahead of future competitions.
