Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) President, Amaju Pinnick has confirmed Fifa’s approval of Kevin Akpoguma to switch allegiance to Nigeria. The world football governing body has cleared the 25-year-old player. And will be part the Super Eagles for their upcoming friendlies.
“I’m extremely happy to announce that Fifa has just granted Hoffenheim defender and former German U20 national team skipper Kevin Ufuoma Akpoguma permission to make his switch to Nigeria with immediate effect.” Pinnick tweeted.
Having been cleared by Fifa, Akpoguma could play a part in Super Eagles’ friendlies in Austria. Ahead of the West Africans’ friendlies against Algeria and Tunisia on October 9 and 13 respectively, Pinnick revealed the center-back has been given the green light to play for Nigeria.
“He has fulfilled the written request to the switch and we only await the good news that he can finally play for us.” Pinnick added.
Born to a German mother and a Nigerian father, the defender has represented Germany at various youth levels. Akpoguma is however still eligible to feature for the Super Eagles. Because he is yet to play for the European country’s senior team.
Last season, he made 18 league appearances for the Kraichgauer to help his side finish sixth in the campaign.