Bafana Bafana star sends bold message to Super Eagles fans after snubbing Nigeria

South African defender Ime Okon has expressed his delight after being named in the Bafana Bafana squad for their international friendlies this March, Afrik-Foot reports.

​Typically, when dual-nationality players emerge for Nigeria, their second option is usually a European nation.

However, Okon’s case is a rare instance where the choice lies between two African giants—Nigeria and one of their top continental rivals, South Africa.

​Born in South Africa to a Nigerian father and a South African mother, the 22-year-old’s decision to represent Bafana Bafana has attracted significant scrutiny from fans on both sides.

While he made his international debut last year for the South African home-based team, this March marks his first senior invitation from head coach Hugo Broos for the upcoming friendlies against Panama.

​These fixtures represent the final window for South Africa before June and serve as the last opportunity for Broos to assess players for his 2026 World Cup roster.

With the tournament approaching, there is a genuine chance that Okon could secure a spot on the plane to the Mundial later this year.

​Ime Okon Reiterates Loyalty To Bafana Bafana: “This is Where I Want to Be”

​For many Nigerian football fans, Ime Okon’s commitment to South Africa feels like a lost battle in the subtle, ongoing rivalry between the two nations.

Some critics have suggested he only opted for Bafana Bafana because the path to the starting lineup seemed easier than with the Super Eagles.

​However, the Hannover 96 defender has dismissed those claims, noting that representing his motherland has been a childhood dream. He expressed his excitement at finally achieving this milestone.

​”I was at training when I got the call that I was being invited. I am very excited to be here and to be amongst the guys,” Okon said. “I had some problems before that held me back, but I am just happy to be here now. I’m looking forward to the training sessions and the next few games.”

​Reflecting on his journey, he added: “Since my adolescent years, I’ve been working hard, and this is where I want to be. I think everything falls into place once you keep working and believe in your goals. That was just my view on everything. It’s very special to me.”

​Despite his impressive form abroad in Germany, Okon faces a tough task in convincing Hugo Broos to make him a regular starter.

The Belgian tactician is known for being a rigid coach who remains fiercely loyal to his core group of players. As such, Okon will have to put in maximum effort during this window to break into that inner circle.