Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina has confirmed why he switched his international allegiance from England to Nigeria.
Born in Southwark, London, on 23 June 1996 to Nigerian parents, Aina progressed through the England youth system, representing the country at U16, U17, U18, U19 and U20 levels. He received a call‑up to the England U21 squad in 2015 but had not yet made an appearance when he accepted an invitation to train with the Nigerian senior team in March 2017.
After spending several weeks with the Super Eagles in London, Aina decided to commit to Nigeria. Because he was provisionally cap‑tied to England, the change required FIFA’s approval. The governing body granted the request, allowing Aina to make his senior debut in a World Cup qualifier against Zambia in October 2017.
In an interview on Nottingham Forest’s official YouTube channel, Aina explained that his family heritage was the decisive factor. “I was born and raised in London, but my parents are from Nigeria. When I was about 20 I chose to play for Nigeria because that is my heritage,” he said. “The opportunity came and I felt it was the right move, so I embraced it fully.”
Aina added that his family takes great pride in his representing Nigeria. “My family is extremely proud when I wear the Super Eagles shirt. They cherish it even more than I do. It is a privilege and an honour to play for them,” he noted.
Since his debut, Aina has become a regular member of the Super Eagles’ defense. He featured prominently in Nigeria’s run to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and was selected for the tournament’s official Team of the Tournament, reflecting his consistent performances at left‑back.
Aina’s decision underscores the growing trend of dual‑nationality players opting for their ancestral countries, adding depth to Nigeria’s squad while highlighting the nation’s appeal to diaspora talent. The defender remains a key figure for both Nottingham Forest and the Super Eagles as they prepare for upcoming international fixtures and club campaigns.
