Mikel Obi, a former Nigerian international, has urged foreign-based players to prioritize their African heritage when considering international call-ups. He believes that players of African descent should take pride in representing their roots and not view their country of origin as a secondary option.
Obi's message comes as a reminder to players who have opted to represent other countries, such as David Alaba, Bukayo Saka, and Tammy Abraham, who chose to play for countries other than Nigeria despite their Nigerian heritage. Obi stresses the importance of making a decision and standing by it, rather than using their African country as a backup plan.