BREAKING: FIFA clears Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo to represent Nigeria ahead of March friendlies

World football governing body FIFA has approved Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo to represent Nigeria at senior international level, Sport360NG reports.

The 24-year-old is now available for selection ahead of the March international window, with the Nigeria national football team set to participate in a four-nation invitational tournament in Amman, Jordan.

Nigeria will take on Iran on March 27 before facing hosts Jordan four days later at the Amman International Stadium. The Super Eagles are scheduled to open camp on March 24 as preparations intensify for the mini-tournament.

Okonkwo’s clearance comes at a crucial time for Nigeria, with first-choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali currently unattached to any club. FIFA ratified Okonkwo’s change of nationality from England to Nigeria in January 2026, completing the formal eligibility process.

Born in London to Nigerian parents, Okonkwo represented England at youth level between 2015 and 2019, featuring for the U-15, U-16, U-17 and U-18 sides. His switch followed talks with Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle during the Unity Cup in London last year. However, paperwork delays prevented him from being considered for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

At club level, the former Arsenal F.C. academy goalkeeper has established himself as a key figure for Wrexham A.F.C. this season. He stepped into the starting role following an elbow injury to Danny Ward and has impressed with consistent performances.

Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson commended Okonkwo’s progress, highlighting his resilience and steady development despite injury setbacks.

Okonkwo has kept six clean sheets in 20 league appearances this campaign, underlining his growing reputation ahead of a potential Super Eagles debut.