Super Eagles forward Sadiq Umar and Kaduna North legislator Bello El-Rufai have acquired Ranchers Bees FC, the historic Kaduna-based football club renowned for nurturing generations of Nigerian football talent.
Established in the 1970s, Ranchers Bees FC was once one of Northern Nigeria’s most formidable sides, but in recent years it has languished in the lower divisions. With Umar, currently starring for Spanish La Liga side Real Sociedad, and El-Rufai at the helm, hopes are high for a strong resurgence.
“We want to restore the club to its former glory,” Umar said. “Growing up, I watched Ranchers Bees produce countless great players. Owning this club is both a source of pride and a responsibility we take seriously.”
Under the new leadership, the club will field a competitive team in the Nigeria National League (NNL) and establish a robust academy system. Their ultimate goal: secure promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) in the shortest possible time.
Beyond on-pitch ambitions, the takeover signals a broader commitment to Kaduna’s sporting legacy and youth development.
“The response from fans has been overwhelming,” Umar added. “We are determined to revive the club’s rich traditions and bring supporters back to the stands.”
