- He is a former Nigerian professional footballer
- He played as a defender for the Nigerian national team
- He represented the Nigerian national team at the 1996 Africa Cup of Nations and featured in the 1998 World Cup
Taribo West is a name that evokes memories of a beautiful football career with flamboyant hairstyles and an evangelical minister. West was a professional Nigerian footballer who played as a defender for the Nigerian national team, where he played a key role in the 1996 Africa Cup of Nations victory and featured in the 1998 World Cup.
Born in Nigeria, he discovered his love for football as a child where he played on dusty streets and makeshift pitches, honing his skills with a burning passion. His talent was rewarded by local youth coaches who helped him join local youth teams like Sharks FC and Dolphins FC, quickly showcasing his defensive prowess and leadership qualities.
His outstanding performances at the youth level caught the attention of national selectors, he joined the Nigeria U-20 and the following year, he joined the senior national team.
Taribo West Turning Point
West was part of the 1993 U.S. World Youth Championship, a tournament that proved pivotal in his career. His impressive performance as a central defender for Nigeria made him stand out on the global stage, attracting the attention of European scouts.
In the same year, he signed his first professional contract with French club Auxerre, which marked the beginning of his successful European adventure.
Early and Personal Life of Taribo West
Taribo’s early and personal life is as fascinating as his on-field exploits. He was born in Port Harcourt, Nigeria in 1974 to Wakaji Batubo, where he grew up in a modest environment helping his mother sell food to support the family this is where he found solace in palsy football on the streets and local pitches.
Taribo West. Photo/The Guardian Nigeria
While football offered hope, he faced the realities of poverty and gang culture and choosing a different path, embracing football was the best decision he ever made. A local football coach and mentor recruited him for Sharks FC, a youth team in Port Harcourt and this was a turning point for his life. West played for Nigerian clubs like Obanta United, Enugu Rangers and Julius Berger where he quickly rose through the ranks.
Taribo is best known for his iconic hairstyles. During his playing years, he was renowned for his vibrant and often outlandish hairstyle like the cornrows and the Duracell bunny look which became his signature, reflecting his flamboyant personality and adding a touch of fun to the sporting world.
After retiring from professional football, West Embraced a life of faith and became a pastor. He founded the ‘Shelter in the Storm Miracle Ministries of All Nation” church using his platform to spread religious messages and support the community.
Taribo West Career
West was a professional Nigerian footballer who played as a defender for the Nigerian national team, where he played a key role in the 1996 Africa Cup of Nations victory and featured in the 1998 World Cup.
Born in Nigeria, he discovered his love for football as a child where he played on dusty streets and makeshift pitches, honing his skills with a burning passion. His talent was rewarded by local youth coaches who helped him join local youth teams like Sharks FC and Dolphins FC, quickly showcasing his defensive prowess and leadership qualities.
Taribo West. Photo/Sports Brief
His outstanding performances at the youth level caught the attention of national selectors, he joined the Nigeria U-20 and the following year, he joined the senior national team.
From Football to Evangelism
West’s mother brought him up in Christianity exposure and this was a sure foundation for his later spiritual journey. During his football career, the player went through periods of reflection that led him to explore his spiritual side more deeply.
With his fame, he found an opportunity to make a positive impact beyond the football world, as a way of uplifting others.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login