Wanderers manager Sam Allardyce had hoped to persuade the influential midfielder to miss the tournament so that he could take part in the two legged tie against Villa but it seems Okocha is adament in playing for the Super Eagles next month.
Okocha was disappointed to miss the tie having been a big influence in the earlier rounds of the competition but he also recognises the importance of his international ambitions, something which Allardyce and the Nigerian FA are in dispute about at this moment in time as to the length of time the player is away from domestic action due to international commitments.
"It's a pity I have to go, I would love to stay after getting to this stage but this is like the European Championships for us, although it doesn't get the same publicity over here. Going late to the competition is a big effort for me - I can't do any more than that." Okocha said
The 30-year old former Paris Saint Germain and Fenerbache man will however be supporting the Wanderers and keeping an eye on developements during the African Nations Cup in the hope that his club can progress through to the final of the competition.
"My heart will be there for the team, I'll be wishing them well and hoping they get to the final, which I am sure they can because we have a bigger squad than we've had before."