Super Eagles and Fulham midfielder, Alex Iwobi believes that consistently showcasing the Nigerian national team on the international stage will attract more foreign-born talents to represent the country.
Iwobi, who has become a key figure in the Super Eagles setup, committed to Nigeria in 2015 after making 11 appearances for England’s youth teams.
His senior debut for the Super Eagles came on October 8, 2015, when he replaced Ahmed Musa in the 57th minute during a 2-0 friendly loss to DR Congo in Visé, Belgium. Since then, he has amassed 82 caps, inspiring other dual-nationality players to join the Nigerian fold.
In the last AFCON, he played in all seven games, contributing to Nigeria reaching the final. Although they didn’t win, coming that close showed how far the team has come.
Players of Nigeria celebrate. (Photo by Haykel Hmima/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Reflecting on his journey with Nigeria, Iwobi highlighted how close competition runs and the potential of winning major tournaments influence the decisions of foreign-based players.
“Yeah, of course, especially with the sort of talent we have in Nigeria now,” the Midfielder said.
“Unfortunately, we lost in the final, AFCON, but if we keep on progressing and win competitions, it’ll attract players not just living in England, but also in Spain and Germany to try and play from where they’re actually from because for me.”
“I grew up in the Nigerian culture so when I just tried it out and saw it what was I like, there was no turning back for me. Plus, they’ve seen me and Calvin do it, why not do it as well?” the 28-year-old said in an interview with Sky Sports.
After Iwobi’s switch, several other foreign-born players have followed suit, including Calvin Bassey, Ademola Lookman, Ola Aina, and Semi Ajayi, further boosting the Super Eagles’ squad depth.
Ademola Lookman and Calvin Bassey celebrate. Photo | X
Fulham defender Calvin Bassey also opened up about the significance of representing Nigeria and the overwhelming support he has received from fans.
Bassey, who grew up in England, emphasized the importance of foreign-born players reconnecting with their roots.
“The love I get from Nigerians is crazy, even more so from my family,” Bassey shared. “I didn’t grow up in Nigeria, so every time I visit, it feels like I’m connecting with a part of myself. It’s like killing two birds with one stone.”
“I’m the first in my family to grow up in England, but I was raised in a very African household. So, going back to play for Nigeria didn’t feel strange—it felt normal.
“I think it encourages people to learn more about their backgrounds. They don’t necessarily have to play for the country but at least to know more about their roots is important. Alex and I feel at home when we’re there, so it’s good.”
Both Iwobi and Bassey have cemented their places in Fulham’s starting lineup this season, contributing to the team’s solid 10th-place position in the Premier League under Marco Silva’s management.
Their success in club football and commitment to Nigeria serves as a blueprint for other dual-nationality players considering a switch to the Super Eagles.
