Nottingham Forest defender, Ola Aina has disclosed the reasons behind his decision to change his international allegiance from England to Nigeria.
Having been born in the London Borough of Southwark 29 years ago to Nigerian parents, Aina seemed destined to represent England’s senior team, the Three Lions.
He played for the Young Lions at U16, U17, U18, U19, and U20 levels, and received a call-up to the U21 side in 2015.
However, with no U21 cap yet to be earned, the former Chelsea fullback accepted an invitation to train with the Super Eagles in London in March 2017.
After getting acquainted with the squad, he made the decision to represent Nigeria.
Due to being provisionally cap-tied to England, his switch of sporting nationality required FIFA approval before he could make his Super Eagles debut in a World Cup qualifier against Zambia in October 2017.
Aina articulated that his familial connections to Nigeria significantly influenced his choice to represent the three-time African champions at the senior level, despite having earned over 20 caps for the Young Lions.
“Born and raised in London, I chose to play for Nigeria. It was simply a decision I made when I was around 20. That’s where my parents are from; that’s my heritage,” Aina stated in an interview with Nottingham Forest’s YouTube channel.
“The opportunity presented itself, and I believed it was the right one at that moment, so I embraced it wholeheartedly, and here I am today.”
Aina also expressed his family’s pride in witnessing him represent Nigeria on the international stage, especially when donning the iconic green-and-white jersey.
“My family is extremely proud of me, particularly when I wear the Super Eagles shirt. They cherish it even more than I do. For me, it’s a privilege; it’s an honor. It’s truly remarkable to play for them,” he said.
Aina played a pivotal role in the Super Eagles squad that advanced to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, earning a spot in the tournament’s official Team of the Tournament for his exceptional performances.