Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo is reportedly set to pledge his international allegiance to Nigeria, marking a major win for the Super Eagles.

The 26-year-old, who was born in Manchester to Nigerian parents, has long been a part of England’s youth setup but never earned a senior cap.

After years of waiting, Tosin’s visit to Nigeria earlier this year and encouragement from Nigerian rapper OdumoduBlvck appear to have contributed to the final decision taken by the Chelsea defender.

SPORTS: Tosin Adarabioyo has reportedly switched allegiance to Nigeria from England. pic.twitter.com/nHEszZddgn

— 49th. (@the49thstreet) August 5, 2025

Tosin puts England past behind

Tosin has represented England at the U-16, U-17, U-18, and U-19 levels, making him one of the most experienced defenders in England’s youth ranks.

Despite this, the Chelsea centre-back has never been invited to the Three Lions team, leaving the door open for a switch to represent his parents’ country, Punch reports.

Nigeria, you are special.

So much to build, so much to discover - talent to uncover, hearts to inspire. 🇳🇬 pic.twitter.com/dAG8sG5cJa

— Tosin Adarabioyo (@TosinAdarabioyo) August 2, 2025

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) had long monitored his progress, reportedly including the 26-year-old defender in a long list of potential call-ups during his time at Fulham.

However, Tosin initially preferred to keep his options open, as many believed he was holding out for an England senior invitation.

In July, the defender visited Nigeria for the first time, meeting government officials and NFF officials. Sources suggest this trip played a key role in changing his mind, allowing him to connect with his roots and consider a Super Eagles career seriously.

OdumoduBlvck takes credit for Tosin’s switch

While the NFF worked behind the scenes, it was Nigerian rapper OdumoduBlvck who publicly claimed credit for convincing Tosin to choose Nigeria.

The rapper, known for his World smash hit Declan Rice, shared on X (formerly Twitter) how he directly encouraged the Chelsea defender to pick Nigeria over his country of birth, England.

“Agent KALA! Literally walked up to my man and said, ‘You need to play for Nigeria.’ He said, ‘Don’t worry.’ Naija for life ❤️😭,” OdumoduBlvck posted after the news surfaced.

AGENT KALA 🇳🇬

LITERALLY WALKED UP TO MY MAN AND SAID “ YOU NEED TO PLAY FOR NIGERIA”

HE SAID

DONT WORRY.

NAIJA FOR LIFE ❤️😭 https://t.co/QnA11wT9OU pic.twitter.com/PwHiLl6YQJ

— AKPORSTLE INDUSTRY MACHINE ⚙️ (@Odumodublvck_) August 5, 2025