Arthur Okonkwo, the goalkeeper of Wrexham AFC, has received clearance from FIFA to represent Nigeria at senior international level, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The 24-year-old is now eligible for selection ahead of the March international window, during which the Nigeria national football team will participate in a four-nation invitational tournament in Amman, Jordan.
Nigeria are scheduled to face Iran national football team on March 27 before taking on hosts Jordan national football team four days later at the Amman International Stadium. The Super Eagles are expected to open camp on March 24.
Okonkwo’s clearance comes at a time of uncertainty over Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, who is currently without a club.
FIFA approved Okonkwo’s nationality switch from England to Nigeria in January 2026, completing the formal eligibility process. Born in London to Nigerian parents, he represented England at youth level between 2015 and 2019, featuring for the U-15, U-16, U-17 and U-18 teams.
His decision to commit to Nigeria followed discussions with Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle during the Unity Cup in London last year. However, administrative procedures prevented him from being included in Nigeria’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The former Arsenal FC goalkeeper has become a regular presence for Wrexham this season, stepping into the starting role after Danny Ward suffered an elbow injury.
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson praised the goalkeeper’s progress and impact at the club.
“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 recorded six clean sheets in 20 league appearances this season, underlining his growing importance to the Welsh side.
