In a move to reposition Bendel Insurance Football Club for greater success in the upcoming 2025/2026 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season, the Edo State Sports Commission has announced the immediate dissolution of the club’s board.
Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, made the announcement in a statement released by his Media Officer, Edoko Wilson Edoko.
He also confirmed the appointment of Emperor Jarret Tenebe as the new Chairman of Bendel Insurance FC, succeeding Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu, who was recently appointed Director General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“This decision is part of our broader objective to revamp Edo’s sports assets in line with His Excellency, Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo’s vision,” Enabulele said.
“Bendel Insurance finished the last league season in fifth place, and with Emperor Tenebe’s rich experience in football management, we are confident he will lead the team to greater heights.”
Hon. Enabulele further stressed that the restructuring is key to the governor’s plan to drive youth empowerment through sports.
“Governor Okpebholo is passionate about using sports as a catalyst for youth development. This restructuring is just the beginning of a comprehensive overhaul of Edo’s entire sports ecosystem,” he added.
Newly appointed Chairman, Emperor Jarret Tenebe—who also serves as the Edo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC)—welcomed the opportunity and promised to build on the club’s recent achievements.
“I am familiar with football administration and I always strive for excellence,” Tenebe stated. “I am grateful to the Sports Commission Chairman and the Board for this trust. We will begin work immediately and I assure everyone that we will do our best to consolidate on Bendel Insurance’s successes.”
The Edo State Sports Commission also disclosed that an official unveiling ceremony for Emperor Tenebe as Chairman of Bendel Insurance FC will be held next week, with full details to be announced shortly.
