Former Nigerian international Eric Ejiofor has expressed confidence that Arthur Okonkwo will provide strong competition for Stanley Nwabali and Maduka Okoye in the Super Eagles, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Okonkwo, who was born in Camden to Nigerian parents, previously represented England at the youth level during his time at Arsenal, featuring prominently for their Under-18 side before switching allegiance to Nigeria. He currently plies his trade with Wrexham.
Speaking in an interview with Brila FM, Ejiofor described Okonkwo’s inclusion as a positive development for the national team, particularly as Nigeria continues to rebuild towards the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
“It’s a good one for the Nigerian team because we want healthy competition for the position. For an additional goalkeeper, it will make everybody sit up,” Ejiofor said.
He added that the presence of more quality goalkeepers would make selection easier for the coaching crew, with performance in training expected to determine who earns the starting role.
“The goalkeeper coach will not have any issue because the goalkeeper who performs well in training will man the goalpost. It’s an opportunity for us to see Okonkwo, and if he can become the number one, no problem,” he added.
Ejiofor further stressed that increased competition would raise standards within the squad, ensuring that no player becomes complacent in such a crucial position.
“Once you don’t give your best in that position, then you know somebody else is there to claim that position from you. So it’s a good one for the Super Eagles.”