Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina has revealed why he decided to switch his international allegiance from England to Nigeria.
Born in the London Borough of Southwark 29 years ago to Nigerian parents, Aina had appeared destined to represent England’s senior team, the Three Lions, having featured for the Young Lions at U16, U17, U18, U19 and U20 levels, and receiving a call-up to the U21 side in 2015.
With an U21 cap yet to materialise, the former Chelsea fullback accepted an invitation to train with the Super Eagles in London in March 2017, and after familiarising himself with the squad, he opted to represent Nigeria.
Because he was provisionally cap-tied to England, his change of sporting nationality required Fifa approval prior to making his Super Eagles debut in a World Cup qualifier against Zambia in October 2017.
Aina explained that his family ties to Nigeria played a key role in his decision to represent the three-time African champions at senior level, despite earning more than 20 caps for the Young Lions.
"Born and raised in London, I decided to play for Nigeria. It was just a decision that I made when I was about 20. That’s where my parents are from; that’s my origin," Aina told
Nottingham Forest's YouTube page.
"The opportunity came for me and I thought it was the right one at that time, so I took it with both hands, and I'm here today."
Aina also spoke warmly about his family's pride in seeing him represent Nigeria on the international stage, particularly when wearing the famous green-and-white jersey.
"My family are very proud of me, especially when I wear the Super Eagles shirt. They love it more than me. Even for me, it’s a privilege; it’s an honour. It’s amazing to actually play for them."
Aina was a key member of the Super Eagles squad that reached the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, earning a place in the tournament’s official Team of the Tournament for his standout performances.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
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