Edward Oseghe and Chidinma Kalu
Bendel Insurance Football Club on Tuesday unveiled former Plateau United and Akwa United tactician, Kennedy Boboye, as the club’s new head coach, signaling a fresh chapter in the Benin Arsenal’s quest to reclaim its status among Nigeria’s football heavyweights.
The unveiling ceremony, held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium Media Centre in Benin City, attracted top officials from the Edo State Sports Commission, club executives, supporters, and members of the media.
Speaking at the occasion, Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Desmond Enabulele, described Boboye’s appointment as a strategic move aimed at restoring 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.
“Bendel Insurance is not a mid-table team—we are a club with a rich history, passionate supporters, and lofty ambitions,” Enabulele said.
He explained that the management decided to part ways with the former coach following a string of poor results that left the team struggling in the lower half of the NPFL standings.
“We had to act in the club’s best interest. Our fans and sponsors deserve more, and we are determined to deliver,” he added.
Enabulele expressed confidence in Boboye’s pedigree, describing him as “a proven winner” with two NPFL titles to his name, and assured that the Edo State Government would provide full support to the new technical team.
In his remarks, Hon. Jarrett Tenebe, Chairman of Bendel Insurance Football Club, urged players to embrace discipline, unity, and focus under the new coach.
“The new coach will instill tactical discipline and a winning mentality. If the players stay committed and follow his instructions, success will follow,” Tenebe said, adding that management remains committed to creating a conducive environment for success.
Earlier in her welcome address, Permanent Secretary of the Edo State Sports Commission, Mrs. Efe Amenze, described the event as “historic,” noting that it reflects a renewed drive for excellence within the club’s structure.
Also speaking, Mrs Sabina Chikere, the Executive Director of Sports Development, pledged total support for Boboye and expressed optimism about the team’s resurgence. She radiated confidence in the club’s new direction, stating that the unveiling of Boboye symbolises a fresh start for Bendel Insurance.
“This is the beginning of a new era and a new chapter. The sky is going to be our starting point. We are one big family, and we’ll work together to bring Bendel Insurance back to where it belongs — winning titles, lifting the FA Cup, and returning to continental football,” she declared.
The ceremony featured the display of Bendel Insurance’s new jersey for the ongoing season, a presentation of the club’s branded caps to dignitaries, a brief highlight of Boboye’s career achievements, and a warm ovation from fans and the supporters group.
The highlight of the event was Boboye’s official contract signing and presentation of the club’s branded jersey, signifying his formal assumption of duty as Bendel Insurance’s new Technical Director.
Boboye, a former Super Eagles striker, enjoyed a successful playing career with Sharks of Port Harcourt, Udoji United, and European sides SV Sterling and KFC Uerdingen. As a coach, he has managed several NPFL clubs including Sunshine Stars, Abia Warriors, Plateau United, Remo Stars, Akwa United, and Heartland FC—winning league titles with Plateau United (2017) and Akwa United (2021).
He is expected to assume full duties immediately as Bendel Insurance intensifies preparations for upcoming NPFL fixtures.
With renewed optimism from management, players, and supporters, the Benin Arsenal are aiming for a strong resurgence and a return to continental football in the 2025 season.
