Enyimba add Nigeria midfielder Garando Tekena to NPFL squad

Nigeria midfielder Garando Tekena has joined Enyimba Aba from a spell without a club on a free transfer, adding a left-footed central midfielder to the NPFL side.

Tekena, who has also featured in the CAF Champions League, returns to club football after leaving Rangers in July 2025. He had joined Rangers from Bayelsa in July 2024, following a spell with Abia Warriors.

The 26-year-old has made 48 NPFL appearances during his career, scoring six goals and providing one assist. He has played 3,171 minutes in the competition, with his goals coming at an average of one every 529 minutes.

His record also includes three CAF Champions League appearances and 185 minutes in the continental competition. The move gives Enyimba a midfielder with experience of both domestic league football and African club competition.

Tekena’s time at Bayelsa followed his move from Abia Warriors during the 2022-23 season. He subsequently established himself in the Nigerian league before moving to Rangers the following campaign.

The transfer brings the midfielder back into the NPFL after his period without a club and places him at one of Nigeria’s established clubs. Enyimba will compete domestically while also drawing on its experience of continental football, a setting in which Tekena has already appeared.

Tekena is primarily a central midfielder and favours his left foot, providing Enyimba with another option in the middle of the pitch. His previous league record includes regular involvement, with 48 appearances across his NPFL career.

The completed move was registered on 16 September 2026, with Tekena joining Enyimba Aba as a free agent.