By Simeon OSAJIE
Bendel Insurance Football Club also known as Benin on Monday unveiled new kits and former Plateau United and Akwa United Football tactician, Coach Kennedy Boboye, as the club’s new head coach, signaling a fresh chapter in the Benin Arsenal’s quest to reclaim their status among Nigeria’s football heavyweights.
The unveiling ceremony, held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Media Centre, Benin, attracted top officials of the Edo State Sports Commission, Club executives, Supporters, and other stakeholders including Edo State Football Association Chairman, Fred Newton Erhunmwunsee and members.
Speaking at the ceremony, Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin 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 with passionate supporters, and lofty ambitions,” Enabulele said.
Going further, Enabulele 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 just have to act in the club’s best interest. And we are not regretting that we took the right decision.
“Our fans and sponsors deserve more, and we are determined to deliver,” he added.” Enabulele added.
The Executive Chairman of the Commission expressed confidence in Boboye’s pedigree, describing him as “a proven character and winner” with two NPFL titles to his name, and assured that the Edo State Government would provide full support to the new technician and the team.
In his remarks, Chairman of Bendel Insurance, Emperor Jarrett Tenebe, 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,” thus reflecting a renewed drive for excellence within the club’s structure.
Also speaking, representatives of the club’s board and supporters’ group pledged total support for Boboye and expressed optimism about the team’s possible rebound.
The ceremony featured a brief highlight of Boboye’s career achievements, a presentation of the club’s branded caps to dignitaries, and warm ovations from fans.
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 in the Week 9 engagement with Rivers United in Benin.
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.