Former Super Eagles and Chelsea star, Mikel John Obi, has issued a stern warning to footballers of Nigerian descent playing abroad, asserting that Nigeria should not be treated as a fallback option.
In a video posted on Friday morning during his appearance on The Obi One Podcast, Obi expressed his views on the matter. He recently interviewed his former coach, Carlo Ancelotti, and emphasised that football talents of Nigerian or African descent should never consider their home country or continent as a secondary choice.
“I’ve talked a lot about players not representing their African roots,” Obi said. “We’ve had meetings with these kids and their parents, urging them to represent Nigeria. They often aim to play for countries like England or France, waiting for a call-up. When they reach 25 or 26 and don’t get selected, they turn to Nigeria. We shouldn’t be treated as a backup option. Be proud of your African roots and represent your country.”
Nigerian footballers are prominent across the globe, playing in elite leagues in Europe, emerging competitions in Asia, and the Americas. This international presence underscores Nigeria’s strong football development system and the global recognition of its players’ skills and versatility.
Notable Nigerian players include Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman in Italy’s Serie A, Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, and Calvin Bassey in the English Premier League, and Samuel Chukwueze in Spain’s La Liga.
Several Nigerian talents, including Jamal Musiala, David Alaba, Eberechi Eze, and Manchester United’s new striker Joshua Orobosa Zirkzee, featured prominently in the recently concluded EURO 2024 tournament won by Spain. Additionally, the only Black athletes representing Japan in men’s football at the 2024 Olympics, goalkeeper Leo Kokubo and midfielder Joel Chima Fujita, were born in Japan to Nigerian fathers and Japanese mothers.
However, many Nigerian-born players represent other countries, such as Tammy Abraham, Carlton Cole, John Fashanu, Fikayo Tomori, Dele Alli, and Michael Olise. David Alaba, who allegedly faced issues with the Golden Eaglets’ selection process due to bribery claims, has denied these reports.
Obi emphasised the importance of African talents representing their continent. He urged those who choose developed countries over African nations to remain committed to their decision and not seek to play for Nigeria later in their careers.
“I want the best players to play in Africa, so make a decision and stand by it,” Obi said. “If you decide to play for England, stick to it. Don’t wait until you’re past your prime and then turn to Nigeria. We’re not a backup option.”
