Maha Christopher
South Africa defender Ime Okon has explained why he chose to represent Bafana Bafana instead of Nigeria, saying his heart has always been with the country he considers home.
According to The Punch, the 21-year-old centre-back, who was born to a Nigerian father and a South African mother, is currently part of South Africa’s squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Okon featured for the entire 90 minutes in South Africa’s 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic on Thursday.
Speaking in a video shared by Nigerian journalist Osasu Obayiuwana on Friday, the Hannover defender said his decision was based on his strong connection to South Africa.
“I don’t know what to say, but at the end of the day, I know where my heart lies. I have played for South Africa in the COSAFA games and I scored,” Okon said.
“South Africa is everything to me. I don’t know anything besides South Africa. That is home.”
Responding to questions about whether Nigeria had attempted to convince him to represent the Super Eagles, Okon said there had been no serious approach from the Nigerian Football Federation.
“No, not really. But even if they call me, South Africa is my home. That’s what I have to say,” he added.
The defender has emerged as one of South Africa’s promising young talents and continues to play an important role for the national team.
Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, extending their absence from football’s biggest tournament after also missing the previous edition.
