Former Chelsea and England forward, Eniola Aluko, has urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to step up its game if it wants to attract more players with dual nationality.
Aluko, whose brother Sone Aluko played for the Super Eagles, explained that many players born abroad choose countries like England because of better organization, investment, and professionalism in their football systems.
Speaking in a recent interview with Spotify, Aluko said:
“Most players who grow up in England only consider playing for their country of origin when they think they won’t make the cut in England. That shouldn't be the case.
“It’s the responsibility of countries like Nigeria to become more attractive and competitive. Right now, there are still issues with structure and support.”
Aluko played for the England Lionesses throughout her international career and never suited up for Nigeria. She’s now calling for a stronger system back home to give Nigerian football a fighting chance on the global stage.
The Nigerian national teams have seen a growing number of dual-nationality players recently. Super Falcons players like Ashleigh Plumptre, Michelle Alozie, Toni Payne, and Jennifer Echegini were all raised abroad. On the men’s side, stars like Ademola Lookman, Ola Aina, Joe Aribo, and Calvin Bassey also chose to represent Nigeria.
