Trabzonspor defender, Chibuike Nwaiwu, has attributed his maiden invitation to the Super Eagles to his steady performances and dedication at the Turkish club.
The 22-year-old was initially left out of the squad for the March international friendlies against World Cup-bound Asian teams Iran and Jordan.
However, he was handed a late call-up to join the team in Turkey after Calvin Bassey pulled out with a back injury.
Although he arrived late at the training camp in Antalya and had just one training session with the squad, head coach Eric Chelle gave him his debut appearance as a substitute in Nigeria’s 2-1 win over Iran.
Since joining Trabzonspor from Wolfsberger AC during the winter transfer window, Nwaiwu has made a notable impact in the Turkish Super Lig, scoring three goals—all from headers—in 15 matches.
His performances have earned him recognition as one of the standout U23 centre-backs in the league.
Speaking after Trabzonspor’s 1-1 draw with Göztepe, the defender stressed the value of consistency in achieving international selection.
“I am so grateful to be here and for the national team. When I arrived, I said to myself that this club was going to give me the platform, and I am very grateful to have earned my first national team call-up because of the hard work I have put in and because of the club too,” he said.
