Hannover 96 have announced the signing of 21-year-old centre-back Ime Okon on a four-year deal, following the expiry of his contract with South African side Supersport United. The highly rated defender, born in Johannesburg to a Nigerian father, chose to represent South Africa despite being eligible to play for Nigeria.
Okon arrives at the German club after trial spells with Danish side FC Midtjylland and Ukraine’s Dynamo Kyiv, and has already drawn praise from Hannover 96’s technical crew. The club’s Managing Director, Marcus Mann, described the left-footed player as “fast, robust, and full of exciting potential,” emphasizing his exceptional athletic profile and willingness to learn.
Hannover narrowly missed promotion to the Bundesliga last season, and Okon says he’s committed to helping the team rise again. “I’m very excited about the challenge of playing in Germany,” he said. “My goal is to grow here, become a better player, and help Hannover achieve great things.”
Describing his style of play, Okon noted his physicality and pace, promising to bring those attributes to the pitch. “I’ll try to use my strengths from the very beginning to support the team,” he added.
The South African international made his debut earlier this year at the 2025 COSAFA Cup, realizing a childhood dream. “My mom always said, ‘One day, Bafana Bafana,’” Okon recalled. “Wearing the jersey meant everything.”
Although deeply rooted in Nigerian heritage, Okon is clear about where his loyalty lies. “I grew up in South Africa. I don’t speak the Nigerian language fluently, but I know my roots. I’m South African, and I’m proudly Nigerian too.”
His dual identity has made him a subject of international interest, but the rising star has pledged his future to South Africa—choosing emotional connection and upbringing over heritage.