BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Nigerian-born striker Babatunde Adepoju has officially become eligible to play for the Malawi national football team the Flames, after being granted Malawian citizenship.
The Football Association of Malawi (FAM) confirmed the development through its Communications Director, Gomezgani Zakazaka, in a statement published by The Nation newspaper.
Babatunde who has been a key figure for his club side in the TNM Super League, has long expressed his desire to represent Malawi at international level citing his strong connection with the country where he has lived and played football for several years.
His naturalization process has been ongoing for months with both FAM and government authorities working behind the scenes to ensure all legal requirements were completed before he could don the Flames jersey.
Zakazaka explained that the successful acquisition of citizenship clears the final hurdle that stood in the way of Babatunde’s inclusion in the Flames squad.
“He is now fully Malawian and eligible to represent the nation in all competitions,” he said.
The development comes at a crucial time as Malawi prepares for upcoming international fixtures, including the World Cup qualifiers.
Ibrahim Phiri Sports Analyst argue that his inclusion in the Flames setup could add much needed depth to the forward line especially considering the team’s struggles in converting chances during previous tournaments.
Meanwhile, FAM has also indicated that the association will continue scouting players of Malawian heritage abroad while also recognizing the contribution of foreign-born players who choose to naturalize and serve the nation.
Babatunde himself has spoken passionately in the past about how Malawi has given him an opportunity to grow as a footballer and as a person.
He has often said that he feels at home and considers Malawi his second Current he is leading with 11 goals in Tnm Super League 2025 Season.
He plays for Nyasa Big Bullets.
