Super Eagles and Real Sociedad forward, Sadiq Umar, and current House of Representatives member (Kaduna North), Hon. Bello El-Rufai, are leading the revival of one of Nigeria’s proudest clubs, Rancher Bees.
Sadiq and Bello El-Rufai officially acquired Rancher Bees FC, the historic Kaduna-based football club.
The duo named former AS Roma defender, Nura Abdulahi, as the club president in their first announcement.
Also, the team will compete in the Nigerian National League (NNL) for the 2025-2026 season.
The club is a traditional name in Nigerian football history, producing several former internationals and enjoying a rich legacy in the Kaduna football scene.
🐝 The big announcement is finally here!
Ranchers Bees Kaduna are officially returning to the Nigeria National League after years away from the game we love. pic.twitter.com/BOTpmo9V5G
— Ranchers Bees (@ranchers_bees) August 10, 2025
Speaking on the acquisition, Sadiq Umar is excited about reviving the club’s glory days.
“I and my partner, Hon. Bello El-Rufai want to return the club to its old glory days. Growing up, I watched Rancher Bees of Kaduna, a club that produced countless players. It’s a thing of pride and joy for us to be the bona fide owners of the club,” Sadiq concludes.
Meanwhile, the new owners have ambitious plans, with the club fielding an academy and a professional side for the NNL.
“Our target is to secure promotion to the NPFL. I’m elated by the feedback from Rancher Bees supporters and the people of Kaduna. We will bring back the old memories of the club and return the fans to the stadium,” Sadiq added.
Furthermore, with the backing of the passionate Kaduna fanbase, the new era for the pride of Kaduna promises an exciting journey toward restoring its storied past.