Chuba Iwobi, father of Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi, has shed light on the emotional and personal reasons behind his son’s decision to represent Nigeria at international level instead of England.

Although born in Lagos, Alex Iwobi grew up in England and progressed through the English youth system, featuring for the Three Lions at U-17 and U-18 levels. With his talent evident from a young age, he had the option of waiting for a senior England call-up. Instead, he chose to commit his international future to Nigeria.

Speaking to Molatsportsgist, Chuba Iwobi revealed that the turning point came when Alex visited Nigeria for the first time at the age of 18, following an invitation from then Olympic Eagles coach, Samson Siasia.

“When Alex came to Nigeria for the first time, he was 18, and I was the one who took him there,” Chuba said.
“At the time, the mindset was for him to come and have a look because he got the invitation from Samson Sia Sia for the Olympic team.”

According to him, the experience left a deep impression on the young midfielder.

“When he went there, the welcome he got from the fans, the team and the nation was resounding.
He saw a different kind of atmosphere where there’s so much fun, laughter and prayers.”

Chuba also admitted he had his own preference but allowed his son to decide freely.

“I did tell him if it was down to me, he would go back to Nigeria because that’s where his roots are.”

Alex Iwobi eventually made his Super Eagles debut in October 2015, featuring in a friendly defeat against DR Congo. Since then, he has gone on to become one of Nigeria’s most consistent midfielders, featuring at multiple AFCON tournaments and World Cups.

Opinion: When Football Becomes More Than a Career Choice

Iwobi’s story is a reminder that international football is not always about trophies, rankings or exposure—it is often about belonging. For many dual-nationality players, the final decision is shaped less by logic and more by feeling.

The warmth, culture and emotional connection Iwobi experienced in Nigeria gave him something England could not offer: a sense of home. In an era where players are sometimes criticised for choosing African nations late in their careers, Iwobi’s choice stands out as one rooted in identity rather than convenience.

Nigeria did not just gain a talented footballer that day—it gained a player who plays with pride, purpose and a deep understanding of what the green-and-white jersey represents. And in modern football, that emotional bond can be just as valuable as technical ability.