EDO GOVT DISSOLVES BENDEL INSURANCE FC BOARD, APPOINTS APC CHAIRMAN TENEBE AS NEW CLUB BOSS

The Edo State Government has dissolved the Board of Bendel Insurance Football Club with immediate effect, ahead of the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season. In a statement released by his Media Officer, Edoko Wilson Edoko, the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, confirmed the appointment of Emperor Jarret Tenebe as the new Chairman of Bendel Insurance FC.

Tenebe replaces Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu, who was recently appointed Director-General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. According to Enabulele, the decision is part of Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo’s broader vision to transform Edo’s sports sector and elevate the performance of the state’s flagship football club.

“This decision is in line with the broader objective to revamp Edo’s sports infrastructure in accordance with His Excellency, Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo’s vision,” Enabulele stated. “Bendel Insurance finished last season in fifth place, and with Emperor Tenebe’s wealth of experience in football management, we are confident he will take the club to greater heights.”

The Edo State Sports Commission boss emphasized that Governor Okpebholo is passionate about leveraging sports as a tool for youth empowerment and development. “This restructuring is the first step in a holistic overhaul of Edo’s sports ecosystem,” Enabulele added.

Tenebe, who is also the Edo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), expressed gratitude for the appointment and assured supporters of his commitment to sustaining the club’s progress. “I am well-versed in football administration and always strive for excellence. I thank the Chairman of the Sports Commission and the Board for this opportunity. We will hit the ground running and work to consolidate on Bendel Insurance’s recent successes,” he stated.
An official unveiling ceremony for Tenebe as the new Chairman of Bendel Insurance FC is scheduled for next week, with further details to be announced in due course.