Bendel Insurance Football Club’s new Technical Manager, Kennedy Boboye, has expressed optimism that the team’s fortunes will improve before the middle of the season, following their 1–1 draw against Warri Wolves in a Matchday 11 clash of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, on Saturday evening.
Speaking during the post-match press conference, Boboye acknowledged his disappointment over his players’ inability to convert their numerous scoring chances but maintained that he is determined to bring positive change to the club.
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“We need to keep pushing because we didn’t bargain for the home draw results we are getting,” said Boboye. “We prepared very well ahead of this match and got an early goal, but we couldn’t maintain the lead. That’s the way football is sometimes. We’ll continue to work harder, encourage the boys, and I believe strongly that things will change.”
The experienced tactician also hinted at plans to reinforce the squad during the mid-season transfer window, noting that the team will keep managing with the available players for now.
“No need to blame ourselves over recruitment,” he added. “We will keep managing till mid-season when we can make some adjustments. For now, we’ll return to training and prepare well for our next match against Rivers United — we’re hopeful for victory in that one.”
In Saturday’s fixture, Insurance started brightly, with Alex Oweilsyefa marking his return from injury by scoring in the 9th minute. However, Warri Wolves hit back before halftime through Othuke Egbo’s superb free kick in the 41st minute to level the game.
The draw marked Boboye’s second consecutive 1–1 result since taking charge of the Benin Arsenals on October 13, 2025, following the suspension of former head coach Greg Ikhenoba. In his debut match the previous week, Insurance were also held 1–1 by Kun-Khalifat FC in Owerri.
Bendel Insurance, currently third from bottom of the NPFL table with eight points, will next host Rivers United in a rescheduled Matchday 9 fixture on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium. Kick-off is set for 4 p.m., with Boboye and his squad determined to secure their second league win of the season.
