FIFA has officially approved the nationality switch of London-born goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, making the 24-year-old eligible to represent Nigeria at international level.

Okonkwo, who was born in London to Nigerian parents, had previously represented England at youth level but has now completed his switch of international allegiance to the Super Eagles.

The decision ends months of anticipation and clears the path for the former Arsenal goalkeeper to pursue a senior international career with Nigeria.

Born on September 9, 2001, Okonkwo featured for England’s youth teams between 2015 and 2018, representing the U15, U16, U17, and U18 sides. His final appearance for England came at U18 level in 2019.

With opportunities at senior international level limited, the shot-stopper opted to represent Nigeria through his parental heritage, with FIFA regulations permitting the switch. The approval now makes him fully eligible for selection by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

Okonkwo joined Arsenal’s academy at a young age and rose through the club’s youth ranks, earning a reputation as one of England’s promising young goalkeepers. He made his senior debut for Arsenal in May 2021 in a Premier League match against Crystal Palace.

Although first-team opportunities at Arsenal were limited, he gained valuable experience through loan spells at Crewe Alexandra and Austrian club Sturm Graz.

He later joined Wrexham ahead of the 2023/24 season, initially on loan before completing a permanent move in 2024 following the retirement of veteran goalkeeper Ben Foster.

Okonkwo has since played a key role in Wrexham’s rise through the English football pyramid, helping the club secure successive promotions from League Two to the Championship.

So far this season, he has made several notable saves and kept six clean sheets in 21 appearances in the Championship.