First-time Super Eagles invitee vows to commit “all strength” to Nigeria’s friendlies vs Ghana, Mali

Ihefu FC defender Benjamin Tanimu has expressed his delight at earning his first Super Eagles call-up ahead of Nigeria's two friendlies later this month, Soccernet.ng reports.

The Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, at the weekend announced that the Super Eagles will play against Ghana on March 22 and Mali four days later in Marrakech, Morocco.

Twenty-seven players have been invited to represent the three-time African champions in the encounters, including Benjamin Tanimu.

It is the first time Tanimu gets called up for the Super Eagles, a big step forward in his young career.

The 21-year-old defender impressed with Bendel Insurance last year. Tanimu was one of the reasons the Benin Arsenal boasted one of the best defences in the Nigeria Professional Football League.

Tanzania's Ihefu FC secured Tanimu's signature last month, and a few weeks after, the tough-tacking defender is on the verge of making his Super Eagles bow.

Tanimu attributes his progress to God, and he has vowed to give his very best should the coaches ask him to play against Ghana or Mali.

“It’s God’s doing,” Tanimu told the PUNCH.

“This time last year, I was also invited to the U-23 team. I'm glad to have been invited to the Super Eagles of Nigeria for the upcoming international friendlies against Mali and Ghana. It's huge progress for my career.

“Clarion call heard, and I’m ready to serve Nigeria with all strength.”

Tanimu has been given the chance to impress the national team handlers following injury to PAOK defender William Troost-Ekong.

Troost-Ekong was the best player at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d'Ivoire, where he made history as the first defender to score three goals in a single tournament.