Edo Govt Backs ‘New Era’ for Benin Arsenal’s NPFL Revival
Bendel Insurance Football Club have unveiled seasoned tactician Kennedy Boboye as their new head coach, signalling a fresh dawn for the Benin Arsenal in their bid to reclaim a spot among Nigeria’s football elites.
The unveiling ceremony, held on Monday at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium’s Media Centre in Benin City, also featured the presentation of the club’s new kits. It attracted top Edo State sports officials, club executives, supporters, and football stakeholders, including Edo FA Chairman, Fred Newton Erhunmwunsee.
Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, described Boboye’s appointment as a bold and strategic step to restore the club’s competitive edge in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).
“This is not just about unveiling a coach; it is a decisive step in rebuilding this great club into a consistent contender,” Enabulele said. “Bendel Insurance is not a mid-table team — we have history, passionate supporters, and lofty ambitions.”
He explained that the management’s decision to part ways with the former coach followed a string of poor results that left the team struggling in the lower half of the NPFL standings. Enabulele, however, expressed full confidence in Boboye’s pedigree, describing him as “a proven character and winner” with two NPFL titles to his name.
Bendel Insurance Chairman, Hon. Emperor Jarrett Tenebe, urged players to show discipline, unity, and commitment under the new coach. “The new coach will instil tactical discipline and a winning mentality. If the players stay committed, success will follow,” Tenebe said.
Permanent Secretary of the Edo State Sports Commission, Mrs. Efe Amenze, hailed the occasion as “historic,” noting that it reflected the government’s renewed commitment to excellence in sports development.
Boboye, a former Super Eagles striker and two-time NPFL-winning coach with Plateau United (2017) and Akwa United (2021), brings a wealth of experience from managing top clubs including Sunshine Stars, Abia Warriors, Remo Stars, and Heartland FC.
The new head coach is expected to assume full duties immediately as Bendel Insurance prepare to face Rivers United in their NPFL week 9 clash in Benin.
With fresh leadership, new kits, and renewed optimism, the Benin Arsenal are setting their sights on a strong resurgence — and a return to continental football by the 2025 season.
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