Gift Orban: Gent and Super Eagles newcomer expresses affection for Nigeria despite Togo links

Gift Orban has recently received his first call-up to don the jersey of the Super Eagles of Nigeria

KAA Gent striker, Gift Orban, has expressed his strong affinity for playing with the Super Eagles of Nigeria despite rumours linking him to his mother’s country, Togo, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 21-year-old gained prominence after his transfer from Norwegian side Stabaek Fotball to Belgium’s KAA Gent during the winter transfer window.

Orban has made a significant impact at the Gent-based club, scoring 20 goals in his first few months, attracting the attention of top European clubs and earning a call-up to the Super Eagles.

While it’s known that Orban spent much of his childhood in Togo and Benin Republic, and his mother is from Togo, rumours suggested he might follow in the footsteps of Emmanuel Adebayor and choose to represent Togo. However, Orban has clarified his allegiance while speaking to Football Fans Tribe.

“I don’t like Nigeria, I love it [Nigeria]. This country has good players, good talents. I love this country,” Orban expressed.

Regarding the Togo rumours, Orban stated, “It is not true. I never played for Benin or Togo, many people will talk, but I never played for Togo. Although, Togo needs players, but for me, I don’t want to play for Togo.”

While Orban’s mother hails from Togo, he revealed that his father is from Benue State, Nigeria.

Watch the video here:

Previously, Orban received a call-up to represent Salisu Yusuf’s Olympic Eagles during their Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, but injuries prevented him from accepting the invitation.

Now, as the Super Eagles prepare to face São Tomé and Principe on Sunday, the forward is eager to contribute to his team’s victory in their final AFCON qualification match.