Former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) president Amaju Pinnick has admitted he still feels regret over Nigeria’s failure to convince Tammy Abraham to commit his international future to the Super Eagles.
Abraham, born in London to Nigerian parents, was eligible to represent Nigeria throughout his youth career despite progressing through England’s age-grade teams.
That opportunity officially closed in 2017 when the striker made his senior debut for England in a European Championship qualifier against the Czech Republic.
Speaking on The Playzone and Dangolo Way podcast, Pinnick revealed that Nigerian football authorities made sustained efforts to persuade Abraham, believing his Nigerian heritage and family ties would ultimately influence his decision.
According to Pinnick, discussions at one point appeared successful, with Abraham initially agreeing to represent Nigeria before reversing his decision shortly before England moved to cap him.
“Tammy Abraham, we sat like this,” Pinnick said. “We had agreed that he would come to play, but at the last moment he changed his decision.
“Now he’s 28 and has returned to Aston Villa, but I can tell you that I regret it. I spoke to his father we grew up together. He would have played for Nigeria.”
Abraham has since earned 11 caps for England, scoring three goals, but his international career has stalled.
His last appearance for the Three Lions came in a UEFA Nations League match against Italy in June 2022, and he has not been recalled despite club spells with AS Roma, AC Milan, Beşiktaş and a return to Aston Villa.
Pinnick suggested that choosing to represent powerhouse European nations can limit long-term international opportunities, unlike playing for Nigeria, where players often enjoy extended careers and deeper emotional connection.
He referenced former England international Gabriel Agbonlahor as an example, noting how brief international careers can be. “Agbonlahor played three games and that was it,” Pinnick added.
In contrast, Pinnick highlighted Alex Iwobi’s decision to represent Nigeria over England as a clear success story.
The former FIFA Council member revealed that the NFF played an active role in securing Iwobi’s commitment to the Super Eagles.
“Iwobi is playing for the Super Eagles today. I know the role we played,” Pinnick said. “If Iwobi had played for England, he would have stopped playing for England five or six years ago.
“If your football club doesn’t support you, your national team will.”
Iwobi has gone on to become a key figure for Nigeria, playing a central role as the Super Eagles reached the semi-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations before securing a bronze medal.
Pinnick described Nigeria’s AFCON performances as evidence of the lasting value of committing to the national team.
