Birmingham City right-back Bright Osayi-Samuel has revealed that his deep-rooted connection to Nigeria and the unity within the Super Eagles squad were decisive factors in choosing to represent the West African nation over England at international level.
The 28-year-old defender, who was eligible to play for both countries, said his upbringing and strong cultural ties to Nigeria ultimately shaped his international allegiance.Osayi-Samuel played a key role in Nigeria’s run at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, starting six of the team’s seven matches.
He delivered one of his standout performances in the semifinal clash against Morocco in Rabat, producing a composed and disciplined display as Nigeria held the Atlas Lions scoreless for 120 minutes before eventually bowing out on penalties.Born in Okija to Nigerian parents, Osayi-Samuel spent 14 years in England, making him eligible for the Three Lions.
However, he made his competitive debut for Nigeria in a FIFA World Cup qualifier against Guinea-Bissau under former head coach José Peseiro — a cap that officially tied him to the Super Eagles.Speaking on OmaSportsTV, Osayi-Samuel reflected on whether he would have considered representing England if the opportunity had arisen.
“Growing up, my mum and dad made sure I was strongly connected to Nigerian culture — from weddings to the food and everything about our heritage,” he said. “Some people might think playing for England is better, but you don’t always experience the other side of it.”
He highlighted the camaraderie within the Nigerian squad as a defining feature of the national team environment.“When you get to the Nigeria setup, everyone is enjoying themselves. Even players who aren’t playing are smiling and excited.
There’s no bad energy — and that’s one of the reasons I will always choose Nigeria first,” he added.Osayi-Samuel began his professional career as a winger before transitioning to right-back following his move to Turkish giants Fenerbahçe — a positional switch that proved pivotal in his international breakthrough.“I started as a winger, but when I signed for Fenerbahçe, they wanted me at right-back.
At first I didn’t like it, but I learned the position,” he explained. “Then I got the call-up from Nigeria. I thought, if this is how I get to represent my country, I’ll take it. I’ve always dreamed of playing for Nigeria.”
He described his maiden call-up as an honour and said the opportunity to feature for both club and country in the same position strengthened his commitment to the role.Beyond football, Osayi-Samuel emphasized that family and heritage played a central role in his decision.
He spoke of the pride his parents instilled in him and the support he continues to receive from extended family members in Nigeria.“Tournaments like Afcon are a way for me to give something back,” he said.
“The love and messages I’ve received from back home have been amazing. I’ve met so many new people because of it, and that’s something I truly value.”Since making his debut in a high-profile friendly against Portugal, Osayi-Samuel has earned 32 caps for the Super Eagles, cementing his place as a key figure in Nigeria’s national team setup.
