The Chairman of Bendel Insurance FC, Emperor Jarrett Tenebe, and the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, have commended the players and technical crew of Bendel Insurance for their resilience and fighting spirit following their dramatic 2-1 victory over Niger Tornadoes in Sunday’s Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 12 encounter in Benin City.
The Benin Arsenals came from behind to secure all three points at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, scoring a stoppage-time winner to complete an impressive comeback against a determined Niger Tornadoes side.
Niger Tornadoes took the lead in the 36th minute through Aliyu Muhammad, who calmly converted a penalty. However, the visitors were reduced to 10 men after Muhammad was sent off for a series of hard tackles shortly before the final whistle.
Bendel Insurance capitalised on their numerical advantage, with Jonathan James restoring parity in the third minute of first-half added time (45+3) before John Taiwo struck the decisive goal in the 90th minute plus five minutes (90+5) to hand the hosts a memorable victory.
The win lifted Bendel Insurance to second position on the NPFL standings with 21 points.
Speaking after the encounter, Tenebe, whose presence at the stadium provided a significant morale boost for the players, praised the team’s determination and ability to overcome a difficult challenge.
Describing the encounter as exciting, the club chairman said the players demonstrated the character and self-belief required to achieve success
“It was an exciting game, and our boys really showed strong character. That’s what we want to see. We must always believe in ourselves. Self-belief played a big part in this difficult game.
“Our opponents came well prepared, but thank God we prevailed in the end.
“It was an opportunity for me to demonstrate that leadership means standing with the team, sharing in its struggles and celebrating its successes. We will continue to encourage and motivate the boys because our aim is to finish at the top and win the league,” he said.
Similarly, Enabulele reaffirmed the Edo State Government’s commitment to supporting football development and restoring Bendel Insurance to greater heights.
The Sports Commission chairman expressed satisfaction with the hard-fought victory, describing the team’s performance as a demonstration of courage and determination.
“I am happy that we finally secured all three points. It wasn’t an easy game for us. I must commend the team for their fighting spirit. I salute their courage,” he said.
Meanwhile, in recognition of the unwavering support of the club’s fans, Tenebe has rewarded 200 loyal supporters with 200 sets of Bendel Insurance new jerseys.
Ten of the supporters received their jerseys during Sunday’s encounter, while the distribution exercise will continue at the club’s next home match.
In another gesture aimed at appreciating the fans’ loyalty and commitment, the club chairman also sponsored 200 match tickets, enabling 200 supporters to watch their beloved team free of charge.
The initiatives underscore the club’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with supporters and encouraging greater fan and community participation as Bendel Insurance continue their push for the NPFL title.
