The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission (ESSC), Desmond Enabulele, has applauded Bendel Insurance FC for their impressive and much-needed victory, following a commanding 3–0 win over Wikki Tourists FC of Bauchi on Matchday 15 of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
The thrilling encounter, held on Saturday at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, treated fans to a high-intensity display of teamwork, discipline, and superior tactical execution. The match was also witnessed by the Chairman of the Club, Chief Emperor Jarrett Tenebe, whose presence further lifted the morale of the players.
Enabulele expressed immense pride in the team’s spirited performance, describing it as “a clear demonstration of resilience, renewed confidence, and the fighting spirit that Bendel Insurance is known for.”
He noted that the victory was both crucial and symbolic, arriving at a time when the team needed a strong result to climb out of the relegation zone.
“This win sends a strong message that Bendel Insurance remains a force in the NPFL. The boys played with purpose, hunger, and unity, and I am confident that this is the beginning of a positive turnaround,” he stated.
Bendel Insurance opened the scoring in the 16th minute through Chinedu Nwosu, who calmly finished a well-earned opportunity inside the box after sustained pressure from the home side.
The second goal came early in the second half when Emmanuel Dung reacted quickest to a loose ball in the 47th minute, doubling the Benin Arsenal’s lead and putting Wikki Tourists—who currently sit 8th on the table—on the back foot.
The third goal arrived in the 58th minute courtesy of Emmanuel Akpan, who powered home a clean finish after connecting with a long throw from Henry Onyia. Akpan’s energetic performance earned him a standing ovation from fans in the South-end stand as he was substituted for Austin Osayande in the 63rd minute.
The Edo State Sports Commission boss also praised the tactical discipline displayed by the players and the technical brilliance of Coach Kennedy Boboye and his crew.
He further commended Bendel Insurance supporters for their unwavering loyalty: “Our supporters deserve credit for standing by the team. Their energy, songs, and presence lifted the boys. Bendel Insurance belongs to the people, and today’s performance reflects the unity between the team and its supporters.”
Reassuring fans and stakeholders, the ESSC Chairman emphasized that the Commission remains committed to supporting the club.
“We will continue to give Bendel Insurance every resource and encouragement needed to keep winning. Today’s victory must be a stepping stone—not an exception. The team has what it takes to rise steadily up the table,” he said.
With the emphatic win, Bendel Insurance now sits in 16th position with 16 points, successfully moving out of the relegation zone and trailing closely behind Enyimba FC.
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