Former Chelsea and England international Eniola Aluko has urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to improve the competitiveness, professionalism, and overall appeal of Nigerian football to better attract dual-nationality players.
Aluko, who played for England’s Lionesses while her brother Sone Aluko represented Nigeria’s Super Eagles, emphasized the importance of making Nigeria a preferred—not fallback—option for players with multiple international eligibilities.
Speaking in a recent interview on Spotify, Aluko explained:
“England is England. Most players raised here who choose to represent their country of heritage often do so because they don’t believe they can build a career with England. But that shouldn't be the only reason.”
“It’s up to countries like Nigeria to become attractive footballing options. There’s still a lot of work to do — in terms of structure, investment, and professionalism.”
“The Nigerian federation needs to position itself as a competitive and desirable choice, not just the alternative.”
Nigeria’s national teams have increasingly relied on players with dual heritage. The Super Falcons include stars such as Ashleigh Plumptre, Jennifer Echegini, Michelle Alozie, and Toni Payne—all raised outside Nigeria.
Likewise, the Super Eagles boast players like Ademola Lookman, Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, and Joe Aribo, who chose to represent Nigeria despite being eligible for other nations.
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