Chibby Nwoko’s Nigeria U23 debut hopes revived after London passport breakthrough

Fulham midfielder Chibby Nwoko has resolved a major passport complication, clearing the way for his anticipated debut with Nigeria’s U23 national team, the Olympic Eagles, in their Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

Allnigeriasoccer.com understands that the former England U18 international successfully renewed his Nigerian passport in London last week after its expiration had threatened to derail his involvement with the Olympic Eagles in November 2026.

The administrative setback had cast uncertainty over the midfielder’s availability for the crucial qualifiers against the Democratic Republic of Congo. However, the successful renewal has removed that obstacle, allowing him to feature in Eric Chelle’s final 23-man squad.

Nwoko is travelling to the Democratic Republic of Congo today to join his international teammates as Nigeria prepare for the first leg of their qualifying assignment.

His arrival will provide the midfielder with an opportunity to make his first appearance for Nigeria’s U23 side, having previously represented England at youth level.

Nwoko among seven new faces in Olympic Eagles squad

The Fulham youngster is one of seven players in the Olympic Eagles squad who received their first senior international appearances during Nigeria’s October friendly against Russia.

Goalkeeper Samuel James, midfielders Vince Osuji and Wilfred George, alongside forwards Peter Edokpolor, Umar Abubakar and Abdullahi Umar, were also handed their debuts by Chelle.

The inclusion of the seven players reflects the coach’s willingness to assess emerging talents as Nigeria work towards securing qualification for the next U23 Africa Cup of Nations.

For Nwoko, however, the upcoming fixtures could represent a particularly significant moment in his international career, given his previous involvement with England’s youth teams.

The midfielder made three appearances for England’s Young Lions, all of which came in friendly matches. Consequently, he remains eligible to represent Nigeria at competitive level.

A competitive appearance against DR Congo would provisionally tie him to Nigeria under FIFA’s eligibility regulations, marking an important step in his international career.

Chelsea academy product eligible through Nigerian father

Although born in London, Nwoko qualifies to represent Nigeria through his father, who hails from Umuahia South in Abia State.

The midfielder previously developed in Chelsea’s youth system before progressing in his football career, eventually earning opportunities with England’s youth national teams.

His decision to represent Nigeria at U23 level presents an opportunity to establish himself within the country’s international football structure.

With his passport complications now resolved, attention shifts to the pitch, where Nwoko will hope to make an immediate impression on Chelle and stake his claim for a regular place in the Olympic Eagles setup.

A competitive debut against DR Congo would not only mark the beginning of his journey with Nigeria but also represent a significant development in his international future.