Nigerian youths, under the leadership of Dr. Raymond Edoh, have urged the Federal Government to invite Jonathan Spiff Asuzu, a talented footballer based in Argentina, to join the country’s Under-20 national football team.
Asuzu, born on February 23, 2007, in Buenos Aires, stands at an impressive 1.87m and plays as a centre-forward for Argentina’s prestigious River Plate.
Despite being born in Argentina, Asuzu holds Nigerian citizenship through his father and has expressed a strong desire to represent Nigeria.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Dr. Edoh emphasised Asuzu’s commitment to his Nigerian heritage, despite interest from the Argentine national team.
“Asuzu has shown loyalty to Nigeria, and we must give him the chance to shine in the green and white jersey,” Edoh said.
The call comes as Nigerian football seeks to nurture young talent to bolster its international standing.
Asuzu’s experience in Argentina’s competitive football environment is seen as a valuable asset for Nigeria’s youth squad.
Since joining River Plate in 2014, Asuzu has honed his skills among some of South America’s best players and coaches.
His technical ability and game intelligence have marked him as a prodigy with the potential to elevate Nigeria’s Under-20 team.
Dr. Edoh highlighted the importance of integrating players like Asuzu, who combine global experience with Nigerian roots. “His unique perspective could provide the edge our national teams need in international competitions,” he noted.
The Nigerian youth movement, rallied by Dr. Edoh, views Asuzu’s inclusion as a step toward honouring national pride and fostering unity through football. His decision to choose Nigeria over Argentina reflects deep cultural ties.
Edoh also praised the leadership of Alh. Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, calling him “the messiah of Nigerian football.”
He credited Dikko’s efforts with revitalising the sport in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has been urged to act swiftly to secure Asuzu’s commitment and create a supportive environment for diaspora talents. Edoh stressed that such moves would inspire a new generation of Nigerian athletes.
Asuzu’s potential inclusion is seen as a chance to continue Nigeria’s legacy of producing world-class footballers. The youth movement believes his skills could spark a cultural and competitive revival in Nigerian football.
Dr. Edoh said : “By bringing Asuzu home, we not only strengthen our team but also send a powerful message of unity and pride to Nigerian youths. This is an opportunity we cannot afford to miss.”
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