Reports circulating in local media suggesting that Igoh Ogbu, a Slavia Prague defender, was approached by the Norwegian Football Association to represent Norway have been confirmed as completely false.
Ogbu, who is part of the current Super Eagles squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, does not meet the eligibility criteria to play for Norway. Having lived in Norway for just four years, he falls well short of the seven-year residency required for naturalisation. Additionally, he does not hold a Norwegian passport, effectively ending any possibility of him switching allegiance.
Under FIFA’s Article 8.1 eligibility rules, a player can only change national teams under specific conditions none of which apply to Ogbu, who is provisionally cap-tied to Nigeria through appearances at the U17 and U20 levels.
Ogbu, aged 25, now faces stiff competition for a starting spot in the Super Eagles’ defence alongside Calvin Bassey Fulham, William Troost-Ekong AFCON standout, and Jordan Torunarigha KAA Gent.
Editorial
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The confirmation that Igoh Ogbu cannot represent Norway clarifies a situation that seemed to spark unnecessary speculation. These false reports often arise from the excitement surrounding dual-nationality players, but FIFA’s strict eligibility rules leave little room for ambiguity.
Ogbu’s commitment to Nigeria was never in doubt, but this situation underscores how easily misinformation can spread, particularly in an era where any potential player allegiance shifts are hotly debated topics. His path has been clear from the beginning representing the country of his birth, where he has already worn the national colours at youth levels.
Now, the real focus for Ogbu should be on cementing his place in the Super Eagles’ senior squad. With fierce competition from established defenders, he will need to prove that his performances in Europe can translate into reliability and leadership for Nigeria on the international stage. This is an opportunity for him to rise to the occasion and become part of a defensive core that Nigeria has long sought to stabilise.
Did You Know?
- Igoh Ogbu graduated from Gee-Lec International Football Academy, a Nigerian grassroots club known for producing European bound talents.
- He made his European debut with Rosenborg BK in Norway before establishing himself at Lillestrom.
- FIFA’s seven-year residency rule applies strictly to players switching nationalities after the age of 18.
- Nigeria has had success stories of players committing early to the Super Eagles, such as Alex Iwobi, who was eligible for England but chose Nigeria.
- Calvin Bassey, one of Ogbu’s competitors for a starting spot, has also previously played in multiple positions across the defence, making the competition for places even more intense.
