Super Eagles striker and Valencia forward Sadiq Umar has unveiled ambitious plans for newly promoted Ranchers Bees FC, declaring that the Kaduna-based side is determined to become the best football club in Nigeria.
Speaking during a media parley in Kaduna on Wednesday, the Ranchers Bees chief executive officer and co-owner outlined a long-term vision centred on youth development, player welfare, modern infrastructure and strategic partnerships aimed at restoring the club to its former prominence.
The former Nigeria National League (NNL) side recently secured promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), and Umar believes the achievement marks the beginning of a transformative journey rather than the end goal.
“As a club owner, my dream is to see Ranchers Bees at the top,” Umar said. “I do not want us to be one of the best clubs in Nigeria; I want us to be the best club in Nigeria. That is the dream.”
The 29-year-old forward stressed that while the club’s ambitions are high, management remains committed to a gradual and sustainable growth model.
“There is a lot of ambition, but we are taking it step by step. I hope next season everyone, especially the people of Kaduna, will be proud of the team,” he added.
Umar acknowledged the financial demands of running a football club and called on investors, corporate organisations and football enthusiasts to support the project.
“Ranchers Bees belongs to everyone. Even the fans can have a stake in the club. Government, brands and individuals are welcome to join us. The objective is to build a self-sustaining club that can thrive independently in the future,” he said.
Focus on Local Talent and Infrastructure
The Super Eagles striker revealed that Ranchers Bees are already strengthening their squad ahead of the 2026/27 NPFL season, with a particular focus on attracting talented Kaduna-born players currently playing outside the state.
He disclosed that approximately 85 per cent of the current squad are Kaduna indigenes, a figure the club hopes to maintain as it continues to prioritise home-grown talent.
According to Umar, further signings are expected in the coming weeks, while a new head coach will also be unveiled as preparations intensify for the club’s return to top-flight football.
Player welfare, he noted, remains a cornerstone of the club’s philosophy and has helped make Ranchers Bees an attractive destination for footballers.
Umar also announced that Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, has pledged to provide land for the development of a modern training ground and talent development centre.
The proposed facility is expected to serve as a hub for nurturing young footballers and creating pathways to professional careers in Nigeria and abroad.
“The idea is to give our children a platform to dream and develop,” Umar said. “They can play for Ranchers Bees, move abroad and one day represent the Super Eagles.”
Partnerships, Women’s Football and League Reforms
Umar revealed that the club is exploring partnerships with foreign clubs and football agencies to create opportunities for emerging talents, although he noted that three Ranchers Bees players were recently denied visas by the Spanish Embassy.
He also confirmed that the historic Kaduna Township Stadium will serve as the club’s home ground during the upcoming NPFL campaign.
On the development of women’s football, Umar welcomed the policy requiring NPFL clubs to establish female teams but stressed the importance of proper planning and equal welfare standards.
“We must ensure female footballers receive the same level of support and opportunities. Women’s football deserves serious investment and advocacy,” he said.
The Valencia striker also addressed broader challenges facing Nigerian football, identifying poor officiating as one of the key obstacles to the growth of the domestic game.
He argued that referees should be funded directly by league organisers rather than host clubs, insisting that such a system would enhance transparency, fairness and public confidence in the competition.
With promotion secured and an ambitious roadmap in place, Umar believes Ranchers Bees are well positioned to become a major force in Nigerian football. The challenge now will be turning that vision into reality as the club prepares for life back in the NPFL.