Ranchers Bees FC: Club Profile & 2026/27 NPFL Guide

Ranchers Bees return to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) for 2026/27 after 16 years away — one of four privately owned clubs promoted together for the first time in league history. Founded in 1974 and based at the Kaduna Township Stadium, the club is now co-owned by Super Eagles striker Umar Sadiq and Bello El-Rufai following their 2025 purchase of the club.

Club History

Originally known as DIC Bees, Ranchers Bees were a traditional force in Nigerian football, playing in the top division as far back as 1983 and reaching the Nigerian Cup final that same year. The club won the WAFU Cup in 1989 during a strong run through the late 1980s and produced several notable players over the decades. They last played in the Nigerian top flight in the 2009/10 season before being relegated and spending 16 years in the second tier.

How They Won Promotion

Under new ownership, Ranchers Bees topped their Nigeria National League (NNL) conference in their debut season back under the Sadiq/El-Rufai ownership, accumulating 20 points from 12 matches to seal an immediate return to the NPFL.

2026/27 NPFL Season

Ranchers Bees’ promotion is part of a historic quartet — alongside Sporting Lagos, Inter Lagos and Doma United — marking the first time four non-government-backed clubs have joined the NPFL together in the same season.

FAQ: Ranchers Bees FC

When were Ranchers Bees founded?
1974, originally as DIC Bees.

Who owns Ranchers Bees?
Super Eagles striker Umar Sadiq and Bello El-Rufai, who bought the club in 2025.

When did Ranchers Bees last play in the NPFL before now?
The 2009/10 season, before 16 years in the Nigeria National League.

Sources: Daily Trust, SportsRation, Wikipedia.