Arsenal forward, Alex Iwobi wants to follow in the footsteps of his uncle and idol, Austin Okocha by winning the Africa Nations Cup in his maiden outing with the Super Eagles.
The 22-year-old who made his debut for the Eagles in October 2015 against DR Congo in a friendly in Belgium would be taking part in his first Nations Cup this summer after representing Nigeria at last year’s FIFA World Cup in Russia.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Iwobi said it will be a dream come true for him having watched some of Okocha’s achievements while growing up.
“I’ve seen some of his highlights from 1994 and it would be cool to achieve that as well,” Iwobi told BBC Sport.
“I’m excited, I have always dreamt of participating and representing my country at the Africa Cup of Nations, but it won’t be easy for us in Egypt
“Both dreams are coming true, hopefully I can get to play in Egypt.”
Jay Jay was part of the Eagles AFCON winning squad in 1994 which was his first appearance.
The 22-year-old who was born in Lagos to Okocha’s sister and arrived in the UK at the age of four also spoke about how passionate the Nigeria fans are.
“I thought I understand what playing for Nigeria truly means, but the more I play in Nigeria and travel home, the more they [fans] make me believe bigger than I have always dreamed of,” he added.
“The more I see the the passion, the hunger that everyone wants for us to get there and do well. I think when I get there I will understand a bit more than I do now,” said Iwobi who has scored five goals including the winning goal that qualified Nigeria to last year’s World Cup at the expense of Zambia.
Nigeria are aiming for their fourth Afcon title after winning the last in 2013 in South Africa.
They missed the last two tournaments and in Group B against Guinea, Madagascar and Burundi.
