Francis Onoiribholo

The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, has applauded Bendel Insurance Football Club following their impressive 2–1 away victory over Kwara United in their Matchday 11 encounter at the Rashidi Yekini Main Bowl, Ilorin, Kwara State, insisting that occupying third position on the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) table is not enough to achieve the club’s ambition for the season.

Bendel Insurance recorded their first away victory of the 2026/2027 NPFL season after staging an impressive comeback to overcome Kwara United in an entertaining encounter, further strengthening their position among the league’s leading contenders.

Kwara United took the lead in the 47th minute, but the Benin Arsenals responded through their captain, Kayode Oke, who restored parity five minutes later.

The visitors completed the comeback in the 56th minute when Chinedu Nwosu unleashed a brilliant strike to secure all three points for Bendel Insurance.

In a statement issued by his Media Aide, Edoko Wilson Edoko, Enabulele commended the players for their determination, discipline, unity and improved performance, noting that the victory reflected the team’s growing confidence and commitment to achieving its season’s objectives.

“Our first away win is not just about the three points; it is a strong statement of the team’s character and ambition. The boys fought with heart, discipline and belief. I commend Coach Kennedy Boboye and his technical team for their tactical brilliance and the players for giving their all until the final whistle,” Enabulele stated.

The Edo sports commission boss, however, maintained that while the victory was commendable, the team’s current third-place position should serve as motivation to aim higher, stressing that the ultimate target remains achieving greater success in the league.

He also recalled Bendel Insurance’s recent victory over Rivers United in Benin, which ended the Port Harcourt-based side’s unbeaten run, describing the successive victories as a significant boost to the team’s confidence and momentum.

Assuring the players and supporters of the Commission’s continued backing, Enabulele reiterated his commitment to providing the necessary support to sustain the team’s progress and ensure consistent performances throughout the season.

“We will keep backing the team with all necessary resources to ensure consistent performance. This win should inspire the players to push even harder in upcoming games.

“Indeed, what a New Month gift to our fans! Bendel Insurance is a club with pride, history and identity, and we are confident they will continue to rise. It is on record that we have always had it so good against Kwara United, especially on their home ground. Today’s outcome was no exception,” he added.

The victory takes Bendel Insurance to third position on the NPFL table with 18 points from 10 matches, behind Rivers United and Rangers International.

The Benin Arsenals will return to the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, to host Rangers International of Enugu in their next outstanding league fixture, scheduled for Wednesday, November 4, 2026.