Sadiq, together with co-owner Bello El-Rufai (a member of the House of Representatives for Kaduna North), acquired the historic Kaduna-based club Ranchers Bees FC in 2025. Just one year later, the club has secured promotion back to the NPFL for the 2026/27 season.
Historic Promotion for Ranchers Bees
Ranchers Bees, one of Nigeria’s oldest football clubs, ended a 16-year absence from the top flight by finishing top of their conference in the Nigeria National League (NNL). They confirmed promotion with a decisive 2-0 victory over Kebbi United, earning enough points to seal their return to the elite division.
The club last competed in the NPFL during the 2009/10 season. Their swift rise under the new ownership marks a remarkable turnaround and positions Ranchers Bees as one of only a handful of privately-owned clubs expected to feature in the NPFL next season.
A New Chapter for Sadiq and Nigerian Football
Umar Sadiq, who continues to represent Nigeria at the highest level while playing club football in Spain, has expressed pride in the project. The acquisition and rapid promotion highlight his ambition to contribute to the growth of Nigerian football both on and off the pitch.
This development is historic: no active Super Eagles player has previously owned a top-flight NPFL club. Sadiq’s involvement is expected to bring fresh investment, professionalism, and renewed hope to Kaduna football.
Ranchers Bees will now prepare for life back in the NPFL, joining other promoted sides as the 2026/27 season approaches.
Congratulations to Umar Sadiq, Bello El-Rufai, and the entire Ranchers Bees family on this impressive achievement!
What an inspiring story for Nigerian football! Do you think more active players should invest in local clubs? Drop your thoughts below.