Bendel Insurance Strengthen Defence With Gabriel Joel Signing

Posted : 30 July 2026

Bendel Insurance have strengthened their squad ahead of the 2026/27 Nigeria Premier Football League season after completing the signing of centre-back Gabriel Lekan Joel on a two-year contract.

The highly-rated defender joins the Benin City club following an impressive campaign with Kun Khalifat FC. Joel featured in 34 league matches, scored three goals and earned five selections in the NPFL Team of the Week, establishing himself as one of the league's standout defenders.

His arrival is expected to add quality and depth to Bendel Insurance's defensive unit as head coach Kennedy Boboye continues preparations for the new season. The Benin Arsenals are aiming to build on last season's performances and mount a stronger challenge for continental qualification.

The transfer was facilitated by OFC Sports Management Ltd., the player's representatives, who successfully concluded negotiations with the former Nigerian champions.

Reacting to the move, Chief Executive Officer of OFC Sports Management Ltd., Olansile Sulaiman, described the transfer as an important step in Joel's career.

"We are extremely excited to see Gabriel complete his move to Bendel Insurance on a two-year deal. This is a significant step in his career, and we firmly believe Bendel Insurance is the right club for him to continue his development and showcase his talent at the highest level," Sulaiman said.

He also praised the defender's attitude throughout the transfer process and thanked Bendel Insurance for placing their trust in the player.

"Gabriel has remained focused, patient and professional throughout this process. We sincerely appreciate Bendel Insurance Football Club for believing in his ability and giving him this opportunity. At OFC Sports Management Ltd., our priority is to guide our players towards the best career decisions while protecting their long-term interests," he added.

Sulaiman noted that the successful transfer reflects the management company's commitment to creating career opportunities for talented Nigerian footballers and helping them reach higher levels of the game.

Joel joins a Bendel Insurance side that finished fifth in the NPFL last season. The club is targeting a top-three finish in the 2026/27 campaign as it seeks a return to continental football under Boboye's leadership.

The defender also reunites with fellow Osun State-born player Fatai Abdullahi Oluwadayo, who joined Bendel Insurance a week earlier. The arrivals underline the club's determination to strengthen key areas of the squad before the new league season begins.

Founded in 1972, Bendel Insurance remain one of Nigeria's most decorated football clubs, with two league titles and four FA Cup triumphs. The club also has a strong reputation for developing talented players who have gone on to excel at the highest levels of Nigerian football.

Bendel Insurance Strengthen Defence With Gabriel Joel Signing

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