Former Nigeria and Chelsea captain John Obi Mikel has issued a stark warning to dual-nationality footballers delaying international decisions, insisting Nigeria must no longer be seen as a backup plan.
Speaking on his Obi One Podcast, Mikel expressed deep frustration at players who ignore the Super Eagles in favour of European national teams, only to return when those hopes fade.
“I’ve talked so much about players not representing their African roots,” said the 2013 AFCON winner.
“We’ve held meetings with these kids, with their parents, and said, listen, you are from Nigeria. Why don’t you represent your fatherland?”
Mikel, who earned over 90 caps for Nigeria, questioned the sincerity of players who delay commitment until later stages of their careers, often after missing out on call-ups to countries like England or France.
“They wait until they’re 25, 26, and then they call Nigeria. We shouldn’t be treated as second options. We are not second options. You should be proud of your African roots.”
The former midfielder’s comments resurfaced this week as Chelsea’s new signing Tosin Adarabioyo edges closer to switching allegiance from England to Nigeria.
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The 27-year-old centre-back, who progressed through Manchester City’s academy and impressed at Fulham before his summer move to Stamford Bridge, recently visited Nigeria for the first time with his family.
Tosin Adarabioyo. Photo Credit: Getty Images
During his stay, Adarabioyo met with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwoolu and attended a youth match at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, a gesture widely seen as symbolic of his growing connection to the country.
“It’s my first time in Nigeria, so it’s been a very nice time. A warm welcome from everybody as soon as I landed,” Adarabioyo told Arise News.
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While in Philadelphia for the FIFA Club World Cup, the Chelsea defender confirmed he was actively considering representing Nigeria.
Tosin Adarabioyo and Governor Babajide Sanwo -Olu in Lagos Government house. Photo Credit: LSGH
“Yeah, it is something that we are looking into in the future. It is a conversation I want to have,” he said.
Mikel also referenced past examples, including ex-Newcastle striker Shola Ameobi, who joined the Super Eagles setup at nearly 30 after years of hoping for an England call-up.
“Shola gave Nigeria a call when he was almost 30. He came and played just one year. But he waited till he was past his best,” Mikel said.
“We want the best players to play for Africa. Don’t come to us at 30.”
