Maduka Okoye has revealed why he turned down an invitation to play at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Completesports.com reports.

Okoye was a notable absentee from Nigeria’s squad for the tournament held in Morocco.

The 26-year-old was sidelined at the start of the 2025/26 season following a suspension over his alleged involvement in a betting scandal.

The former Watford goalkeeper explained that he chose to skip the AFCON in order to focus on regaining his fitness after a lengthy spell out of competitive action.

Okoye On AFCON 2025 Absence

Okoye added that it was equally important for him to repay Udinese for their support during his period of absence.

“Since I was not Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper, I believed it was better to remain at Udinese, work on my form, and also show appreciation to the club for standing by me during a difficult period,” he told German publication Kicker.

Okoye has been included in Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Iran and Jordan.