South Africa defender, Ime Okon, has explained why he chose to represent Bafana Bafana ahead of Nigeria, insisting that his loyalty has always been with the country he considers home.
Born to a Nigerian father and a South African mother, the Hannover defender, who is eligible to play for both countries, is part of Bafana Bafana at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
He played the full 90 minutes in South Africa’s 1-1 draw with the Czech Republic on Thursday.
In a video shared by Nigerian journalist, Osasu Obayiuwana, on Friday, Okon dismissed suggestions that Nigeria had made efforts to persuade him to switch his international allegiance.
The centre-back said his decision was driven by his strong connection to South Africa.
“I don’t know what to say, but at the end of the day, I know where my heart lies. I have played for South Africa in the COSAFA games and I scored.
“South Africa is everything to me. I don’t know anything besides South Africa. That is home,” Okon said.
Asked whether Nigeria had approached him about representing the Super Eagles, Okon said there had been no serious attempt to convince him to switch allegiance.
“No, not really. But even if they call me, South Africa is my home. That’s what I have to say,” he added.
The 21-year-old has emerged as one of South Africa’s promising defensive talents and has continued to feature prominently for the national team.
Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, extending their absence from the tournament after also missing the previous edition.
The PUNCH