NPFL26: Unbeaten Run, Unbroken Spirit as Enabulele Extols Bendel Insurance FC’s Win Over El-Kanemi Warriors
BENIN CITY – Bendel Insurance FC continued their impressive unbeaten run in the Nigeria Premier Football League with a thrilling 3–2 victory over El-Kanemi Warriors of Maiduguri in a Matchday 21 encounter at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.
The resilient display once again drew high praise from the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, who commended the team’s character, discipline, and fighting spirit under the guidance of Head Coach Kennedy Boboye.
In a statement issued by his Media Officer, Edoko Wilson Edoko, Enabulele expressed deep satisfaction with the consistency and mental strength shown by the Benin Arsenal, describing the victory as further evidence that the club is firmly on the right trajectory.
“This victory is not just about the three points; it is about belief, character, and the true Edo spirit of resilience,” Enabulele said.
“To recover from an early setback and still find the courage to respond, dominate, and win speaks volumes about the winning mentality Coach Kennedy Boboye has instilled in this team.”
El-Kanemi Warriors stunned the home crowd with an early opener in the 4th minute, but Kayode Oke restored parity for Bendel Insurance in the 45th minute. The home side took control in the second half as Henry Oyian rose highest to power home a fine header in the 53rd minute, before Kayode Oke completed his brace in the 63rd minute, finishing calmly after connecting with Yazid’s well-delivered free kick.
Despite conceding a late goal following a defensive lapse, Bendel Insurance held firm to seal a deserved 3–2 victory.
Reacting further, Enabulele urged the players to maintain their hunger and composure as they prepare for their next away fixture against Shooting Stars Sports Club of Ibadan.
“This unbeaten run must be protected with focus, humility, and collective discipline,” he added.
“I urge the players to approach the Ibadan challenge with courage and confidence. Go there, play your football, and conquer. Edo State believes in you.”
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Head Coach Kennedy Boboye expressed confidence in the team’s progress and mental toughness. “Since taking over, we have worked deliberately to strengthen the team, and we are yet to lose a match,” Boboye stated.
“I have experienced long unbeaten runs before during my time at Akwa United, we went 18 matches without defeat and we are determined to replicate that success here, starting with our next away game against Shooting Stars.”
Addressing the late goal conceded, the coach attributed it to unnecessary pressure on the goalkeeper following a poor defensive decision.
Bendel Insurance FC will now shift focus to Matchday 22, where they travel to Oyo State to face Shooting Stars of Ibadan, aiming to extend their unbeaten streak and further underline their resurgence in the NPFL.
Edoko Wilson Edoko
Media Officer
Office of the Executive Chairman
Edo State Sports Commission
18 January, 2026