Since making his debut against Mexico in March 2014, when he replaced Joseph Yobo, the veteran center-back has become a key player for the Super Eagles.
Forming a solid defensive partnership with William Troost-Ekong, known as the ‘Oyibo Wall,’ Balogun played a key role in Nigeria’s qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup and their third-place finish at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt.
However, fitness issues kept him out of the three-time African champions' squad, with his last appearance coming in the 10-0 AFCON qualification win over Sao Tome and Principe at Stade d'Agadir in 2022.
Following a two-year hiatus, there was speculation that the former Brighton & Hove Albion and Werder Bremen star had quietly retired from international football, but the no-nonsense defender has dismissed those claims.
"False claims. I think I clarified recently," Balogun told Flashscore in a no-holds-barred interview.
"Sorry to be a bit harsh there, maybe, but it's out there. And I just said it to you yourself. Those claims are, how do we like to say nowadays? Fake news."
Balogun was replaced by England-based Semi Ajayi in Nigeria's squad ahead of the 2024 AFCON in Cote d'Ivoire, where Jose Peseiro's Eagles finished second after losing to the hosts, the Elephants, in a thrilling final.
While praising the national team’s backline in his absence, he acknowledges that returning to the squad won’t be easy but emphasises the importance of high standards and strong competition for places.
He continued: "They've been good. I mean, look at the AFCON. I think they conceded the least goals. So, there's not much more to add.
"Obviously, me wanting to come back into the team doesn't make it easier. But you need a good level of competition because we're talking about the Super Eagles and not just any team.
"You're talking about a team that wants to be the (best) in Africa. So, it needs to be hard to get into the team."
Balogun also shared his thoughts on Nigeria’s 2025 AFCON draw and the team’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite the country’s challenging position.
"Two questions in one. AFCON, well, it's a tournament. You want to win it. Every team that comes there, comes there with ambition," he said.
"So, yeah, you have to take it as it is. You want to be the champion of Africa, (Nigeria) have probably a point to prove after the last AFCON.
"So, you need to go in there with a lot of ambition, a lot of confidence, but also with a clear plan.
"And that clear plan definitely will also be needed for the World Cup qualifiers because we are in a precarious situation where we can't afford to drop any points.
"Therefore, the highest possible focus is needed and the highest level of performances."
The Super Eagles will be aiming for their fourth African title in Morocco but must first navigate past former champions Tunisia, as well as Uganda and Tanzania, in Group C, according to the CAF draw in January.
In the World Cup qualifiers, Nigeria is currently fifth in Group C, with only three points from four matches. They will face Rwanda and Zimbabwe in crucial fixtures in March.
Balogun remains eager to wear the green and white jersey again, and his experience and leadership make him a valuable asset for new coach Eric Chelle. However, his fitness will be key for any potential recall.
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