In this article, you will discover the captivating journey of Benjamin Tanimu, the latest member of Nigeria's Super Eagles.
Uncover the rising star's journey from showcasing his exceptional talents in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) to his first move abroad.
Get to know his biography, state of origin, club career, international career, and salary.
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Benjamin Tanimu biography
Benjamin Tanimu, fondly called “The Wall,” is a Nigerian professional footballer who currently plays as a defender for Tanzania Ligi Kuu Bara side, Ihefu SC.
Born on 24 July 2002 in Benin City, Edo State, Tanimu had a difficult childhood as a young aspiring footballer but his resolve to achieve his dreams pushed him on when things became really difficult.
Granted, not much is known about his early football years, but it was in 2018 that Tanimu caught the eyes of Bendel Insurance scouts and was signed by the club during their time in Nigeria's lower football division.
After a steady growth in the club's ranks, Tanimu went on to spend five years with the Benin side and was instrumental in their 2019 promotion back to the Nigerian top-flight league after the club had spent 10 years in the lower division.
The defender played a big role as Bendel Insurance won the 2023 FA Cup and starred in 19 matches for the Benin Arsenal in the 2023/24 NPFL season with 2 goals to his name, before his move to Ihefu SC in February 2024.
Tanimu's journey from the Nigerian league to Tanzanian's top-flight division showcases his talent and determination as a rising star in African football.
And as he continues to hone his defensive skills and pursue excellence, Tanimu remains a name to watch out for in the world of football especially now that he has earned his first call-up to the Super Eagles team.
Benjamin Tanimu state of origin
Born and raised in the ancient city of Benin, Tanimu is undoubtedly from Edo State.
It's worth mentioning that Nigeria's shining light Victor Osimhen is also from Edo State.
Both players will have a chance to meet face to face for the first time during the March international friendlies where Nigeria is scheduled to take on the Black Stars of Ghana and the Eagles of Mali in Marrakech, Morocco.
Benjamin Tanimu club career
Bendel Insurance
Tanimu began his football career at Bendel Insurance, a Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) side, in 2018.
His journey with the Benin Arsenal was not a rollercoaster in the beginning, he worked his way up the ranks to earn himself a regular berth in the starting lineup.
Since then, Tanimu proved himself as a formidable force in the heart of the defense for Bendel Insurance, earning the respect of fans and teammates alike.
With his solid performances and unwavering dedication, Tanimu was key as the team went unbeaten in the abridged NPFL 2022/23 regular season.
His immense contribution to Bendel Insurance, including their FA Cup triumph in 2023, left a huge impression on the club and he was duly nominated for Bendel Insurance Player of the Year in 2023, although he did not win the award.
Tanimu later found himself at the center of a transfer speculation linking him to Spanish fifth division side Lleida Esportu.
Nonetheless, Bendel Insurance quickly trashed the rumors, stating that no deal was reached, and he began the 2023/24 NPFL season with the club where he went on to score 2 goals in 19 appearances before finally securing a move to Ihefu SC in Tanzania.
Tanimu's departure from Insurance generated heartfelt farewells from the club and its supporters.
In a touching message, the player expressed gratitude for the five and a half years he spent with the side and the history they made together.
Ihefu SC
Following an impressive spell in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) for Bendel Insurance, Tanimu caught the eyes of Tanzanian side Ihefu SC who acquired his services in February 2024 for an undisclosed fee.
This move marked a significant chapter in his career and despite the change of environment, Tanimu wasted no time to hit the ground running, showcasing his defensive prowess in his team's victories in just one month in the country.
The 21-year-old's versatility allows him to excel both as a central defender and a right-back which adds depth to Ihefu's defensive options.
Tanimu made his debut for Ihefu SC in their 2-3 away win against Mtibwa Sugar FC on 12 February 2024.
Benjamin Tanimu international career
Tanimu made his first appearance for Nigeria in the U23 level during his time in Nigeria's domestic top-flight.
But before his move to Ihefu SC, there had been an outcry from Nigerian football fans on the need of a Super Eagles call-up for Tanimu from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).
However, on 9 March 2024, the player got his deserved mention as he received his first call-up to the Super Eagles squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Mali and Ghana in March, 2024.
It wasn't just a first for the Benin born Nigerian footballer, Gabriel Osho also got invited into the Super Eagles team.
The news generated cheers and gladness from fans who have watched the player while in the NPFL for Bendel Insurance.
Congratulations to Ex Bendel Insurance defender Benjamin Tanimu on his Super Eagles call-up.#NPFL24 pic.twitter.com/mSTInVk1lZ
— NPFL News 🇳🇬 (@NPFL_News) March 9, 2024
Joining many Nigerians on social media was Tanimu himself who expressed his gratitude and commitment to serving his fatherland with all his strength.
“Glad to have been invited to the Super Eagles of Nigeria for the upcoming International Friendlies against Mali & Ghana. ‘I'm most excited & thankful to the NFF and the coaching crew for the invitation. Clarion call heard, to serve Nigeria with all my strength!”
With his recent call-up to the Super Eagles squad, Tanimu has the opportunity to showcase his skills on the international stage.
Benjamin Tanimu salary
Tanimu's current salary as a defender for Ihefu SC is not known. This information is not made public for reasons best known to the player.
This article was most recently revised and updated 10 months ago