•Benjamin Tanimu
Former Bendel Insurance defender Benjamin Tanimu has completed a two-year move to Tanzanian Premier League side Singida Black Stars, marking another milestone in his growing professional career.
Before sealing the transfer, Tanimu featured for English club Crawley Town and Moroccan side Maghreb de Fès, where he gained valuable experience in different football environments, reports AFP.
The Super Eagles defender is expected to bring leadership, experience and defensive solidity to his new club as they prepare for the new season.
Tanimu’s journey from the domestic league to professional football abroad continues to inspire many young footballers in Edo State, demonstrating that dedication, discipline, and consistent hard work can create opportunities on the international stage.
Reacting to the transfer, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Comrade Philip Shaibu, expressed confidence that Tanimu would excel in Tanzania.
Shaibu described the defender as hard-working, disciplined and committed to continuous improvement throughout his career.
He recalled that Tanimu developed his football foundation in the Bendel Insurance system during his tenure as Deputy Governor of Edo State, noting that watching the defender grow from a promising youngster into a Super Eagles player has been a source of pride.
According to Shaibu, Tanimu’s success underscores the importance of sustained investment in grassroots sports development, which he said can produce world-class athletes.
The NIS Director-General reaffirmed his commitment to youth development through sports, stressing that football and other sporting activities remain effective platforms for empowering young Nigerians, regardless of their social or economic background.
He wished Tanimu success in his new chapter with Singida Black Stars and expressed optimism that the defender would continue to make Nigeria proud on the international stage.
