Ranchers Bees are officially back in the top flight of Nigerian football. The historic Kaduna-based team secured their ticket to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) after a brilliant run in the lower division.

Their return ends a painful 16-year absence from the top tier, bringing joy to their loyal supporters, Footballrover reports.

Historic Ranchers Bees Set for Top Flight Return

The team finished at the top of their group in the Nigeria National League (NNL) by gathering 20 points from 11 matches.

They sealed their spot among the elite clubs with a solid 2-0 victory over Kebbi United.

This win means they will play in the top league for the first time since the 2009–10 football season.

Founded in 1974, the team has a very rich history. They were once known as DIC Bees and produced top African talents like Daniel Amokachi.

They even won the WAFU Cup in 1989. After many years of financial struggles and playing in the lower divisions, this promotion is a massive revival for the historic northern side.

New Private Owners Drive NPFL Success Story

The major turning point for the club started when Super Eagles striker Umar Sadiq and politician Bello El-Rufai took over the team.

Despite playing in Spain, Sadiq wanted to invest in grassroots football in his home country. He bought the club with the clear goal of making it great again.

The new owners quickly changed how the club was run. They brought in a new management team and stabilised the money situation.

Their ultimate goal was to get promoted in just one year, and the players did exactly that on the pitch.

Next season, the team will stand out as one of the very few privately owned clubs in the league.

They will join sides like Remo Stars and Ikorodu City to show that private investment can work in Nigerian sports.

Like this post?
We’d be delighted to hear from you. Please leave a comment in the box below!

Last Updated on March 27, 2026 9:06 am by footballrover