Former Nigeria international Osaze Odemwingie has urged players of Nigerian heritage born abroad to embrace their roots and consider representing the country, warning of the long-term impact of losing talent to other nations.
The former Super Eagles forward also emphasised the influence of family upbringing, saying parents play a crucial role in shaping a player’s connection to their country of origin.
Odemwingie, who had the option to represent both Nigeria and Russia, ultimately chose Nigeria and made his debut in 2002. Speaking to Brila.net, he reflected on how his early experiences in Nigeria helped form a lasting bond.
“I have watched interviews of players who said, ‘I was born here, raised here, I feel British.’ As for me, I had age one to seven in Nigeria, so I went to primary school in Nigeria.
“I went to my village with my dad and met my granddad; I had some connections with Nigeria from early childhood then we went to Russia and returned at 17 played five years in Nigeria before I went to Europe to play football.”
He said that those formative years played a defining role in his sense of identity, even after spending time abroad.
“Parents do have a role to play but I am not going to say I don’t know how it is for them but for me I had a strong connection with Nigeria.”
Odemwingie credited his father in particular with fostering his enthusiasm for the national team, describing how his passion for the Super Eagles was passed down.
“My dad made me excited about the Super Eagles. ‘Up Eagles Super Eagles’ the voice raises that big figure saying it in front of me; I am a kid anytime he says it with his big smile.
“I used to be happy so these are the things that made me have a connection with Nigeria that made me feel I want to be there.”
He also highlighted the role of his mother, who is Russian, in nurturing that same connection despite her different background.
“My mum also played a major role because despite being Russian she loved Nigeria.
“Even last week when I posted something about a Liverpool game – my mum was at the stadium and it was her birthday.
“I told her ‘Naija is saying happy birthday to you’ she said ‘Screenshot it send to me’ because she was happy to hear that.
“She loves Nigeria so much. I remember when I was in Moscow she would try to bring okro soup; she loves our food she has a connection herself on a soul level.”
The former striker suggested that attitudes among younger players may be shifting, pointing to what he يرى as a growing sense of pride that can sometimes distance them from their African heritage.
“Parents have a big role to play, but, you know these days this generation pride is plenty they do shakara for Africa that’s another part of the problem.”
He also questioned why some players eligible to represent Nigeria choose other countries, arguing that decisions about national allegiance should be clear-cut.
At the same time, Odemwingie acknowledged that modern footballers face different pressures and influences, including lifestyle considerations and professional opportunities.
“These days it’s like they want the pampering. Me as you know, I don’t need no pampering if Naija pampers me it’s more than enough for me.
“We love everyone and there are some cases where the love wasn’t based on the decision for the love of a European country unless maybe you have a mixed heritage.
“Like me growing up there was a rule that once you wear the shirt of a national team you can’t wear another team clothes I love Russia but my connection is with Nigeria when it comes to football and sport.”
He concluded by warning that Nigeria risks losing talented players to other countries if the trend continues, but expressed hope that future generations will rediscover stronger ties to their heritage.
