Nigerian forward Chioma Okafor has sparked widespread debate on social media after confirming her decision to represent Nigeria instead of Malawi at international level.
The 21-year-old striker, who currently plays for the University of Connecticut in the United States, was born in Malawi to a Malawian mother and a Nigerian father. Though she initially expressed a desire to play for Malawi last year, a call-up never materialised.
Her breakthrough performances in the United States eventually drew the attention of the Nigeria Football Federation. In June, she turned down a last-minute invitation from Malawi and instead pledged her international future to Nigeria.
Her decision was rewarded when Super Falcons head coach Justin Madugu named her in the squad for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). Nigeria went on to win the tournament, defeating Morocco 3-2 in the final.
Speaking in an interview with Ademola Victor TV, Okafor explained the rationale behind her choice.
“I took a lot of time, honestly, a couple of years, just thinking about it,” she said. “I knew that with what I wanted to do with my career, I needed the exposure; I needed to play against players that were far better than myself… I wanted to be in an environment that was very competitive and that looked more appealing on the Nigerian side.”
She added: “With time, Malawi is gonna get there, but again, time is always clicking, and I can’t just keep on waiting. I have to take the opportunity that I was given, and I am glad that I am here.”
Nigeria will face Benin in October in the final round of qualifiers for the 2026 WAFCON, where they aim to defend their title in Morocco. Malawi, meanwhile, are seeking their first-ever WAFCON qualification and will take on Angola, with hopes pinned on their attacking duo — Tabitha Chawinga of Lyon and Temwa Chawinga of Kansas City Current.
Okafor’s decision has not only highlighted the increasing competition among African nations for dual-national players but also underscored the growing ambitions of players seeking global football exposure.
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