The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, has congratulated Bendel Insurance striker Alex Oweifaleya on winning the League Bloggers Award for the Best Young Player of the 2025/26 Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) season.
In a statement issued by his Media Aide, Edoko Wilson Edoko, Enabulele described the award as a well-deserved recognition of the youngster’s exceptional talent, discipline and commitment, saying the striker has justified the confidence reposed in him by the club and the Edo State Sports Commission.
“This award is a testament to Alex’s dedication, humility and relentless work ethic. He has shown that with determination, discipline and the right support, young talents can rise to national prominence. We are proud of what he has achieved, and I believe this is only the beginning of greater accomplishments,” Enabulele stated.
The Sports Commission Chairman noted that Oweifaleya’s rapid development reflects the commission’s commitment to nurturing young talents and providing an enabling environment for players to excel.
“Alex has become an inspiration to many young footballers in Edo State and across Nigeria. His journey from grassroots football to becoming one of the most exciting young players in the NPFL demonstrates the importance of investing in youth development. We will continue to support him and other promising talents to reach even greater heights”, he said.
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Oweifaleya scored 15 goals in all competitions for Bendel Insurance during the 2025/26 season, netting 10 goals in the NPFL and 5 in the President Federation Cup. His hat-trick against Ikorodu City was highlighted by the award organisers as one of the defining moments of his impressive debut campaign.
The striker received the award during the League Bloggers Awards ceremony held at the Cordis Hotel Classic, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, on Wednesday night.
Receiving the award, Oweifaleya expressed appreciation for the recognition, saying it would spur him to work even harder in the seasons ahead.
He acknowledged the contributions of coach Greg Ikhenoba, who discovered and developed him from OYC Football Club of Warri in the Nigeria Nationwide League One (NLO), before giving him the opportunity to play in the NPFL.
The young forward also thanked Bendel Insurance Technical Manager Kennedy Boboye, the club’s technical crew, his teammates and supporters for their confidence and encouragement throughout the season.
He reserved special appreciation for Hon. Enabulele, whom he described as a father figure whose encouragement and unwavering support have contributed immensely to his growth.
Enabulele, while wishing the striker continued success, urged him to remain focused and grounded despite the growing recognition.
“Awards come with greater responsibility. Stay humble, keep working hard and never stop learning. Bendel Insurance and Edo State are proud of you, and we are confident you will continue to make us proud both in the NPFL and beyond. The future is bright for you,” he added.
The award comes shortly after Oweifaleya signed a three-year contract extension with Bendel Insurance, reaffirming the club’s belief in his immense potential and long-term value.
SIGNED:
Edoko Wilson Edoko
S. A Media,
Office of The Executive Chairman,
Edo State Sports Commission
July 9, 2026
