BetaGist Top News Around The Globe
Ranchers Bees have sealed a long-awaited return to the top flight after securing promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), ending a 16-year exile from elite football.
The historic Kaduna club finished top of Conference D in the Nigeria National League (NNL) with 20 points from 11 matches, confirming their place among the country’s top sides for the first time since the 2009-2010 campaign.
A decisive 2-0 win over Kebbi United FC on Wednesday proved enough to seal the ticket. Across the other conferences, Beyond Limits, Akwa United and Doma United also clinched promotion.
Ranchers Bees which was founded in 1974 and based in Kaduna once stood among the most respected sides in the country.
The team, then known as DIC Bees, reached the Nigerian Cup final in 1983 and later lifted the WAFU Cup in 1989. They are currently playing at the Kaduna Township Stadium
Over the years, they earned a reputation as a talent factory in northern Nigeria, helping shape players such as former Super Eagles striker Daniel Amokachi.
Financial strain and administrative problems later dragged the club down the divisions, leaving supporters to watch from afar as their once-proud side slipped from the spotlight. This promotion now signals a revival many feared might never come.
The turnaround gathered pace last year when Super Eagles striker Umar Sadiq became co-owner alongside Bello El-Rufai.
At the time, Sadiq was playing for Real Sociedad before completing a permanent switch to Valencia in January. Despite his European commitments, he invested in grassroots football at home with a clear mission.
“We want to return the club to its old glory days,” he said after the takeover. “Growing up, I watched Ranchers Bees… it’s a thing of pride and joy for us.”
Following the acquisition, the new owners installed a fresh leadership structure, improved financial stability and strengthened the squad. Plans were also launched to develop an academy and reconnect the club with their fan base. Promotion was the immediate target, and it has arrived in just one season.
Ranchers Bees will now join a small group of privately run teams in the NPFL next season, alongside Ikorodu City, Barau FC, Kun Khalifat and reigning champions Remo Stars.
