Chioma Okafor left out of Nigeria squad amid dual nationality debate
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Nigeria Women’s National Football Team coach has released a provisional squad for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) qualifiers but forward Chioma Okafor, who has Malawian roots, is missing from the list.
Her omission comes barely days after the player reportedly turned down a late call-up to the Malawi women’s national team, the Scorchers, despite showing initial interest to represent her mother’s country.
Chioma, whose mother is Malawian and father Nigerian, had previously featured for Nigeria and was part of the squad that lifted the WAFCON title earlier this year in Morocco.
However, recent developments suggest that uncertainty surrounding her international allegiance may have influenced her exclusion from the latest Nigerian squad.
“Chioma is a talented player, but her commitment to the national team must be clear,” said a source from the Nigeria Football Federation. “At this level, consistency and loyalty matter more than anything else.”
Sources within the Nigerian camp indicate that selectors opted for players who have been consistent in attending training camps and showing long-term dedication to the national setup.
Meanwhile, the Football Association of Malawi (FAM) is said to be monitoring the situation, hoping to convince the versatile forward to switch allegiance in future competitions.
“We would welcome Chioma if she decides to play for Malawi,” said a FAM official. “She has the quality and background that fits perfectly with our vision for the Scorchers.”
Football analysts believe Chioma’s dual nationality could still work to her advantage if she decides to represent Malawi, provided she meets FIFA’s eligibility requirements. For now, though, the talented forward’s international future hangs in the balance.
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