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Nigeria midfielder Babatunde Akaje Hannafi joins Niger Tornadoes from Kwara United
Babatunde Akaje Hannafi has joined Nigerian club Niger Tornadoes from fellow NPFL side Kwara United.
The 19-year-old central midfielder switches clubs on 22 August 2026 after spending the first part of the calendar year with Kwara United. He becomes a Niger Tornadoes player as the club prepares for the 2026-27 season in Nigeria’s top flight.
Hannafi, who was born in Nigeria on 11 April 2007, made 11 NPFL appearances for Kwara United during the 2025-26 campaign. He played 790 minutes in the competition, giving him senior experience before his move to Niger Tornadoes.
The midfielder joined Kwara United from ABS FC on 1 January 2026, making the move his second club change of the year. His transfer to Niger Tornadoes marks a further step in his early senior career, with the player remaining in the NPFL.
Hannafi’s primary position is central midfield. His recorded market value is €50,000, although no transfer fee has been disclosed for his move to Niger Tornadoes.
The deal was completed on 22 August, with Hannafi’s arrival coming after his brief spell at Kwara United. He has now moved directly between two NPFL clubs after making his league debut appearances during the 2025-26 season.
Niger Tornadoes have secured the services of the Nigeria midfielder following his 11-match campaign with Kwara United, and Hannafi is now registered with the Minna-based club for the next stage of his career.
The move leaves Kwara United after eight months and follows his earlier switch from ABS FC at the start of 2026. Hannafi has therefore played for three Nigerian clubs by the age of 19: ABS FC, Kwara United and Niger Tornadoes.
With no contract expiry date provided, the completed transfer is confirmed by Hannafi’s registration as a Niger Tornadoes player on 22 August 2026.
