Asuzu: Wearing green and white brings pride, honour
Argentina-based striker Jonathan Asuzu has said wearing Nigeria’s national colours is a source of immense pride and honour. The 18-year-old River Plate forward was recently invited by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to join the Flying Eagles ahead of the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile. In a letter dated 8 August 2025, signed by […]
Argentina-based striker Jonathan Asuzu has said wearing Nigeria’s national colours is a source of immense pride and honour.
The 18-year-old River Plate forward was recently invited by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to join the Flying Eagles ahead of the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.
In a letter dated 8 August 2025, signed by NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sani Maikano, Asuzu was selected for the final phase of camping before the tournament.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Asuzu described the invitation as the fulfilment of a childhood dream.
“To represent my country on an international platform is an aspiration I have nurtured since I was a boy,” he said. “Wearing the green and white jersey fills me with pride, honour, and a firm commitment to give my all for Nigeria.”
The striker, however, revealed that he was unable to join the team due to an expired Nigerian passport.
Despite his efforts to renew the document, Asuzu said the process could not be completed within FIFA’s deadline.
“It is with great sadness that I cannot be with my teammates in camp,” he added. “But I remain part of the team in spirit and will support them from wherever I am.”
He encouraged his teammates to remain focused and resilient, stressing that obstacles should be turned into opportunities for comebacks.
“The U-20 World Cup is not just a competition, it is a chance for young players to showcase their skills on the global stage and contribute to our nation’s rich football history,” he said.
Asuzu also thanked the Nigerian government and NFF for investing in youth development, which he described as vital for shaping both athletes and the country’s future.
He paid special tribute to Dr Raymond Edoh for facilitating his invitation and to his family for their unwavering support, especially his father, whom he credited for inspiring his football journey.
His father, Godwin Asuzu, also expressed appreciation to the NFF and government for giving his son the opportunity to serve Nigeria.
The striker concluded by pledging to honour the legacy of past Nigerian footballers and contribute to future successes.
“I look forward to the day we can lift that trophy together, celebrating as one for the love of our country,” Asuzu said.