The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Desmond Enabulele, has stated the Governor Monday Okpebholo’s consistent backing and provision of resources remain instrumental to the Bendel Insurance FC’s progress.
He was speaking while congratulating the team for clinching the Bayelsa Pre-Season Tournament after a commanding 1-0 victory over Warri Wolves in the final at the Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa.
Enabulele praised the coaching crew and players for their outstanding performance, describing the victory as a morale booster ahead of the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.
“Bendel Insurance participated in this tournament as part of preparations for the NPFL26 season, which kicks off next weekend. The competition provided a platform to build team spirit and cohesion, and I’m proud of the players for their commitment,” Enabulele said.
He noted that the team has undergone restructuring with the addition of new signings to strengthen the squad.
“We may not be at our peak yet, but the team’s form is encouraging, and this victory is a good sign of what lies ahead,” he added.
Bendel Insurance went unbeaten throughout the tournament, scoring nine goals and conceding none. They defeated Bayelsa United 2-0, overpowered Kun Khalifat FC 4-0, and eased past Bayelsa United’s U-20 side 3-0 in the semifinals.
In the final, Adamu Yazid fired the opener in the 4th minute, before an injury to Alex forced an early substitution with Iyanda coming on in the 30th minute. Kayode Oke’s close range miss almost gave Benin arsenal the lead in the 40th minute.
Enabulele also lauded the unwavering support of Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, noting that his commitment to sports development has been key to Bendel Insurance’s rising profile.
Bendel Insurance FC will begin their NPFL26 campaign with an away clash against El Kanemi Warriors in Maiduguri on Friday, August 22, 2025.
