Benjamin Fredrick Biography: Full Name, State of Origin, Nationality, Height, Net Worth, Age

Benjamin Chiemela Fredrick is one of Nigeria’s brightest young defensive talents. Born on 28 May 2005 in Kaduna State, he has made rapid strides from local academies to the senior Nigerian national team.

At just 20 years old (as of 2025), he has already featured for Brentford in England and is gaining experience on loan in Belgium, while also earning his first senior cap for the Super Eagles. This biography delves into his background, development, playing style, achievements, and future potential.

Profile

• Full Name: Benjamin Chiemela Fredrick
• Born: 28 May 2005
• Age: 20 (as of 2025)
• Birthplace: Kaduna, Nigeria
• State of Origin: Enugu State, Nigeria
• Nationality: Nigerian
• Occupation: Professional footballer (Center-back / Defender)
• Height: 1.87 m
• Current Club: Dender EH (on loan from Brentford)
• Net Worth: Approx. US$200,000

Early Life & Background

Benjamin grew up in Ungwan Yelwa, a community in Kaduna State, Nigeria. He spent his childhood in a part of the city called “Television” near Kaduna, where conditions weren’t always easy. Financial hardship marked his early journey — his family couldn’t always afford his football boots, so he often “hustled” to buy them himself. Despite these obstacles, his passion for football shone through from a young age.

He joined the Simoiben Football Academy, founded by Nigerian international Moses Simon, where he received structured training and exposure. His early football education laid the foundation for his remarkable rise.

Club Career

Early Club Career in Nigeria

Benjamin’s professional career began in Nigeria. Before making the leap to Europe, he played for ABS FC and Nasarawa United in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL). At Nasarawa United, he became known for his versatility — primarily a centre-back, he occasionally filled in at right-back. He made six appearances for Nasarawa United in the 2022–23 season.

Move to Brentford (England)

In August 2023, Benjamin joined Brentford FC on loan, initially playing with the Brentford B team. His performances quickly caught attention, and Brentford opted to sign him permanently. In April 2024, he secured a four-year contract, believed to run until May 2028.

Although he has not made his official first-team debut in competitive matches, his inclusion in matchday squads and performances at youth level have impressed the club.

Loan to Dender (Belgium)

To gain regular first-team experience, Benjamin moved on loan to FCV Dender EH in Belgium for the 2025–2026 season. Playing in the Belgian Pro League has offered him a valuable platform to test himself in a competitive European environment.

International Career

Youth Level: Nigeria U-20

Benjamin represented Nigeria at the 2023 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt and the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup. During the U-20 AFCON, he played every minute as Nigeria secured third place. In the U-20 World Cup, he featured in four matches, helping his team reach the quarter-finals.

Senior Debut: Super Eagles

Benjamin made his senior national team debut on 31 May 2025, during the Unity Cup friendly against Jamaica. The match ended in a 2–2 draw, but Nigeria won on penalties, and Benjamin’s composed display drew praise.

His coach, Eric Chelle, complimented his technical ability, composure, and maturity. Benjamin credits Chelle and the coaching staff for believing in him early.

Playing Style & Strengths

• Defensive Intelligence: Benjamin reads the game well, anticipates passes, and positions himself effectively.
• Aerial Ability: Despite not being the tallest centre-back, he wins a high percentage of aerial duels thanks to his timing and jumping.
• Composure on the Ball: Comfortable with the ball at his feet, he shows calmness under pressure and good passing range.
• Aggressiveness & Tenacity: He is committed, likes duels, and often wins challenges cleanly.
• Discipline: Known to play cleanly, he doesn’t pick up unnecessary bookings.
• Leadership Potential: Scouts have identified leadership qualities in him, which could make him a future anchor of any defensive line.

Challenges & Personal Journey

Benjamin’s story is not just about talent — it’s also about perseverance.

• Financial Hardship: Growing up without much financial backing, he had to fend for himself, even with basic football gear.
• Playing Conditions: His early years included playing on dirt pitches dotted with holes — not exactly ideal training environments.
• Cultural Transition: Moving to London and adapting to a new culture, climate, and language was another big step.

Yet, through it all, Benjamin stayed grounded, hungry, and focused. His mentors — including Moses Simon — have praised his work ethic and humility.

Achievements & Recognition

• U-20 AFCON 2023: Played every minute, helped Nigeria to a third-place finish.
• 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup: Key defensive role for Nigeria, reached quarter-finals.
• Brentford B Player’s Player of the Year: Recognized for his performances at youth level.
• Super Eagles Unity Cup Winner: Made his senior debut and contributed to Nigeria’s victory.

Net Worth & Contract

Estimated Net Worth: Reports suggest around $200,000 as of 2025.

Market Value: Some sources estimate about €400,000.

Contract: Signed permanently with Brentford in April 2024 on a four-year deal.

Loan: Currently (2025–26) on loan to FCV Dender EH in Belgium to gain first-team minutes.

Future Prospects

Benjamin Fredrick’s trajectory suggests he has a very bright future:

1. Regular First-Team Football: His loan in Belgium is a vital stepping stone to senior-level consistency.
2. Return to Brentford: If he continues to develop, he could fight for a place in Brentford’s first team.
3. European Interest: Clubs in more competitive leagues may start monitoring him closely as he matures.
4. Super Eagles Mainstay: Given his early senior debut and composure, he could become a long-term fixture in Nigeria’s defense.
5. Leadership Role: With his maturity and understanding of the game, he has the potential to be a leader at club or country level.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1: How old is Benjamin Fredrick?

A1: He was born on 28 May 2005, making him 20 years old as of 2025.

Q2: Which clubs has he played for?

A2: He began at Simoiben Academy, then played for ABS FC and Nasarawa United in Nigeria. He joined Brentford B in England and is on loan at FCV Dender EH in Belgium.

Q3: When did he make his senior Nigeria debut?

A3: He made his senior debut on 31 May 2025 during the Unity Cup match against Jamaica.

Q4: What position does he play?

A4: He primarily plays as a centre-back but can also operate as a right-back.

Q5: What are his strengths as a defender?

A5: His strengths include composure, aerial ability, game reading, strong tackles, and clean defending.

Q6: What challenges has he faced?

A6: He grew up in financial hardship, played on rough pitches, and had to adapt to life in Europe after leaving Nigeria.

Conclusion

Benjamin Chiemela Fredrick’s journey from a humble neighborhood in Kaduna to playing in Europe and representing Nigeria at the senior level is both inspiring and promising. He combines physicality, intelligence, and technical skill — traits that bode well for a long and successful career. Despite his youth, he has already shown maturity beyond his years, and with the right development, he could become a central figure in both club and national team defense for years to come. The story of Benjamin Fredrick is not just that of a talented footballer, but also of resilience, ambition, and heart.