The world football governing body, FIFA, has cleared Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo to represent Nigeria at senior international level.
Arthur Okonkwo, 24, is now eligible for selection ahead of the March international window, when Nigeria will travel to Amman for a four-nation invitational tournament in Jordan.
The Super Eagles are scheduled to face Iran on March 27 before taking on hosts Jordan four days later at the Amman International Stadium. The team is expected to open camp on March 24.
Okonkwo’s approval arrives at a time when questions linger over the goalkeeping department, particularly with first-choice keeper Stanley Nwabali currently without a club. His availability and match sharpness have been the subject of speculation in recent weeks, making Okonkwo’s clearance a timely boost for the coaching crew.
FIFA formally approved the switch of allegiance from England to Nigeria in January 2026, bringing an end to a process that had been ongoing behind the scenes.
Okonkwo who is born to Nigerian parents in London previously featured for England at youth level between 2015 and 2019, earning caps with the U-15, U-16, U-17 and U-18 sides.
His decision to commit to Nigeria followed discussions with Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle during the Unity Cup in London last year. Although he had hoped to be part of the squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, administrative hurdles prevented his inclusion at the time.
At club level, Okonkwo has grown into a dependable presence between the sticks for Wrexham. The former Arsenal goalkeeper stepped up this season after Danny Ward suffered an elbow injury, seizing his opportunity with a string of assured performances.
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson has spoken warmly about the Nigerian’s progress.
“Arthur’s a very influential signing for us when we first brought him in. He’s a player who has adapted well despite a few injuries along the way. He has always responded strongly and is improving all the time,” Parkinson said.
Okonkwo has kept six clean sheets in 20 league appearances this term.
