'That's Where Home Is'- Germany-Based Ime Okon Explains Snubbing Nigeria For Bafana Ahead of AFCON

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'That's Where Home Is'- Germany-Based Ime Okon Explains Snubbing Nigeria For Bafana Ahead of AFCON

Mark Kinyanjui 11:56 - 29.11.2025

Okon, who is born to a Nigerian father, opted to represent South Africa over Super Eagles ahead of the 2025 AFCON.

Hannover 96's rising star, Ime Okon, has put an end to speculation surrounding his international career by firmly pledging his allegiance to South Africa's Bafana Bafana, dismissing any possibility of representing the Nigerian Super Eagles.

The 21-year-old centre-back, who was born to a Nigerian father and a South African mother, was recently sidelined with an injury, causing him to miss South Africa's latest FIFA World Cup qualifiers. His absence fueled rumors that he might be considering a switch to Nigeria, but Okon has now made his intentions clear.

"People always talk, but at the end of the day, I know where my heart is," Okon stated in an interview with Radio 2000.

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"I played for South Africa at the COSAFA Cup, I scored against Zimbabwe, and South Africa is everything to me," he added. "I don’t know anything else besides South Africa, it’s where home is."

Okon has successfully broken into the first team at his German club and was a key player for South Africa at this year's COSAFA Cup. His strong performances earned him a spot in Hugo Broos' preliminary squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations.

When questioned about any potential contact from the Nigerian Football Federation, Okon was resolute. "Not really, but even if they call me, South Africa is my home, and that’s all I have to really say."

With his definitive statement, Okon provides a significant boost to Bafana Bafana's defensive options ahead of the continental tournament and officially closes the door on a potential career with the Super Eagles.

About Ime Okon

Before moving to Germany, Okon emerged from SuperSport United, where he rose to prominence.. During his time in South Africa, he impressed with mature defensive performances well beyond his age, forming solid partnerships with seasoned players and attracting early admiration from coaches such as Andre Arendse.

His rapid rise did not go unnoticed abroad. After making close to 30 senior appearances for SuperSport United and earning attention from European scouts, Okon secured a move to Hannover, marking the next step in his growing career.