Wrexham goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo has been cleared to play for Nigeria after FIFA approved his request to change international allegiance from England.

The decision was recorded on April 6, 2026, on FIFA’s official Change of Association register, where his nationality has been updated to the Nigeria Football Federation, replacing his previous affiliation with England’s Football Association.

Okonkwo, who was born in Camden to Nigerian parents, previously featured for England across several youth levels during his time at Arsenal, including the Under-18 side.

The 24-year-old initially joined Wrexham on loan in 2023, spending the campaign at the Stok Cae Ras before completing a permanent transfer in 2024. Since then, he has established himself as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper in the EFL Championship.

Between 2015 and 2019, he represented England at U-15, U-16, U-17, and U-18 levels but never earned a senior cap, making him eligible to switch under FIFA regulations.

His performances this season have stood out, with a string of key saves contributing to Wrexham’s competitiveness in England’s second tier, attracting attention as a strong option for Nigeria.

The nationality switch follows earlier contact with Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle during the Unity Cup in London, although paperwork delays meant he was unavailable for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Okonkwo’s inclusion is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s goalkeeping department, where Stanley Nwabali, Maduka Okoye and Francis Uzoho are among the current options.

FIFA has sanctioned the Nigeria Football Federation and the Fédération Congolaise de Football Association over disciplinary breaches recorded during a 2026 World Cup qualifying match between the two nations, played on November 16, 2025.

In its latest disciplinary overview for World Cup qualifying fixtures, the global football governing body confirmed that both federations were found guilty of separate offences linked to spectator behaviour during the encounter.

Nigeria was penalised for failing to maintain proper order and security at the match after fans were reported to have thrown objects onto the field of play. The offence violated Articles 17 and 17.2.b of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, resulting in a fine of 1,000 Swiss francs imposed on the Nigerian federation.

The Congolese football authority received a heavier sanction after its supporters were found to have used laser pointers or similar electronic devices during the game. The act contravened Article 17.2.d of the Disciplinary Code.

As a result, FIFA handed the Congolese federation a 5,000 Swiss francs fine, significantly higher than the penalty issued to Nigeria.

FIFA noted that disciplinary rulings are determined based on the specific circumstances surrounding each case and may still be subject to appeal.

The organisation also explained that while summaries of sanctions are released publicly to inform the media, the full legal decisions are communicated directly to the federations concerned.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Super Eagles head coach, Festus Adegboye Onigbinde, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President extended his condolences to the late coach’s family, associates, and the entire Nigerian football community.

Tinubu also sympathised with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the National Sports Commission, professional colleagues, and football fans across the country over the loss of the respected football administrator.

The President described Onigbinde as a trailblazer whose contributions significantly advanced the growth and development of football in Nigeria.

He noted that the late coach made history as the first indigenous coach of the Super Eagles in 1982, praising his leadership and dedication to the sport.

“Chief Onigbinde distinguished himself as the first indigenous coach of the Super Eagles in 1982,” the statement said.

Tinubu further highlighted Onigbinde’s role in guiding Nigeria to the final of the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations, describing the achievement as a landmark moment in the country’s football history.

The President also commended the late Modakeke High Chief for his commitment to grassroots football and his efforts to strengthen football administration in Nigeria.

He said Onigbinde would be remembered for his discipline, integrity, foresight, and passion for the game.

Tinubu prayed for the repose of the late football icon and asked God to grant comfort to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.