Ime Okon declares his loyalty to South Africa amid Nigeria rumors

South Africa defender Ime Okon has put to rest any talk about him being wanted by Nigeria. He insists his loyalty to Bafana Bafana has always been clear, even though he can play for the Super Eagles.

The Hannover centre-back, who is eligible to play for both South Africa and Nigeria, is currently with Bafana Bafana at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. He is proving himself as one of the key defensive players for the team.

Okon played the full 90 minutes as South Africa fought for a tough 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic. This result keeps their hopes alive for advancing from Group A as the tournament heads into critical stages.

In a video shared by Nigerian journalist Osasu Obayiuwana on X, Okon explained that his choice to play for South Africa is about identity, not just football chances. He dismissed any idea that Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the World Cup affected his decision. To him, South Africa has always been home.

“I don’t know what to say but at the end of the day, I know where my heart is,” Okon said.

“I have played for South Africa in the COSAFA games and I scored. South Africa is everything to me. I don’t know anything aside South Africa.”

When asked if the Nigeria Football Federation tried to convince him to change teams, Okon rejected the idea. He said there was no serious attempt to bring him on board.

“Nooo. Not really. South Africa is my home. That’s what I have to say,” he stated.

Okon’s comments come at a tough time for Nigerian football. The Super Eagles did not qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They suffered a painful penalty shootout loss to DR Congo during the qualification playoffs in Morocco.

This loss means Nigeria has missed two World Cups in a row, having also not qualified for the last tournament. This is the first time since they debuted in the World Cup in 1994 that the three-time African champions have failed to qualify for back-to-back tournaments.

While Nigeria reflects on this missed chance, Okon seems focused on helping South Africa achieve something special at the World Cup. Bafana Bafana are still in the running for a place in the knockout rounds.