Ranchers Bees End 16-Year Wait, Secure NPFL Promotion
Ranchers Bees have secured promotion back to the Nigeria Premier Football League after finishing top of Conference D in the Nigeria National League.
The Kaduna-based club earned 20 points from 11 matches to return to the top flight for the first time in 16 years. Their last appearance in the elite division was during the 2009–10 season.
They confirmed promotion with a 2-0 victory over Kebbi United, doing enough to stay ahead of their rivals in the group. Across the other conferences, Beyond Limits, Akwa United and Doma United also booked their places in the NPFL.
For Ranchers Bees, the achievement marks an important moment in the club’s history. Founded in 1974 and based at the Kaduna Township Stadium, the club has long been recognised as one of the traditional sides in Nigerian football.
Originally known as DIC Bees, they played in the top division as far back as 1983 and reached the Nigerian Cup final in the same year. They later enjoyed success in the late 1980s, including winning the WAFU Cup in 1989, while also producing several talented players over the years.
However, the club faced years of decline due to financial and administrative difficulties, which led to their drop from the top level.
Their recent success has been linked to a change in ownership last year, when Super Eagles striker Umar Sadiq became a co-owner of the club alongside Bello El-Rufai.
Following the takeover, the new owners introduced structural changes aimed at rebuilding the team and restoring stability. A new management team was put in place to guide the club forward.
The investment and renewed direction have now paid off, as Ranchers Bees complete their long-awaited return to the Nigeria Premier Football League, signalling a revival for one of the country’s historic clubs.
