The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, has announced the immediate dissolution of the Board of Bendel Insurance Football Club as part of efforts to reposition the club ahead of the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.
In a statement released by his Media Officer, Edoko Wilson Edoko, Hon. Enabulele confirmed the appointment of Emperor Jarret Tenebe as the new Chairman of Bendel Insurance FC. He succeeds 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 in line with the broader objective to revamp Edo’s sports infrastructure by His Excellency, Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo’s vision. 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,” Enabulele stated.
He added: “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.”
Emperor Tenebe, who also serves as the Edo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), expressed his appreciation for the appointment and pledged to build on the club’s achievements.
“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,” Tenebe said.
An official unveiling ceremony for Emperor Tenebe as the new Chairman of Bendel Insurance FC is scheduled for next week. Details will be announced in due course.