Super Eagles goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo has set his sights on winning the Africa Cup of Nations with Nigeria and representing the country at the World Cup as he continues his push for a regular place in Eric Chelle’s team.
The Charlton Athletic goalkeeper is back with the national team ahead of Friday’s 2027 AFCON qualifier against Madagascar in Uyo and described his return to camp as a proud moment for himself and his family.
“I’m super happy. It’s been a moment I’ve been waiting for almost a year, trying to get everything sorted, so I’m just happy to be here and be with my teammates again,” Okonkwo said. “It’s a proud moment for me and my family.”
The former Arsenal academy goalkeeper has made no secret of his long-term targets with the three-time African champions.
“I want to win the AFCON and compete in the World Cup,” he declared.
Okonkwo made his senior Nigeria debut at the Unity Cup earlier this year and has since continued to establish himself within Chelle’s goalkeeping options.
With Stanley Nwabali and Maduka Okoye also competing for the gloves, the 24-year-old accepts that he must continue learning and improving whenever he is with the national team.
“At the moment, it’s still early. I want to learn from everyone and learn new things. The previous camp was good for me,” Okonkwo said.
“I want to take things in my stride, keep learning, keep improving, and hopefully one day contribute positively to the Super Eagles.”
His enthusiasm for the national-team environment is not new. After receiving his first invitation earlier this year, Okonkwo described representing Nigeria as a privilege.
“It’s an honour to even get the opportunity to play for your country. I’m so excited; I can’t wait,” he said at the time.
For now, the goalkeeper’s bigger ambitions take a back seat to the immediate assignment as Nigeria prepare to open their AFCON qualifying campaign against Madagascar.
