Bendel Insurance have confirmed the return of goalkeeper Joshua Baba ahead of their Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) Matchday 8 fixture against Sporting Lagos. The goalkeeper rejoined the squad at its hotel in Lagos on Friday evening, Bold Sports reports.
The return comes after the club declared Baba absent without official leave (AWOL). He had failed to report for duty after an approved recovery period. His absence followed an injury he sustained earlier in the 2026/27 NPFL campaign.
How Joshua Baba’s Absence Began
Baba sustained a knock during Bendel Insurance’s clash against Warri Wolves in Benin City. The incident occurred on August 30, 2026, shortly after the new league season began.
The club subsequently granted him two weeks to recover from the injury. Following that period, the goalkeeper travelled to Plateau State to visit his family. Bendel Insurance expected him to return and resume training by mid-September.
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However, Baba did not report back as scheduled. The club also received no prior notification of his plans. His eventual appearance in Lagos on Friday evening brought his absence to an end.
Bendel Insurance Consider Disciplinary Action
Despite confirming his return, Bendel Insurance have indicated that the matter remains unresolved. The club says Baba must answer for his failure to comply with the terms of his professional contract.
His current agreement with the Benin-based side runs until the end of 2027. According to the club, the contract requires him to fulfil his professional obligations. The applicable regulations of the NPFL and Nigeria Football Federation also govern his responsibilities.
The management intends to pursue the necessary disciplinary and administrative procedures.
Baba’s return also comes at a crucial point in Bendel Insurance’s campaign. The Benin Arsenal are preparing to face Sporting Lagos in their Matchday 8 fixture on Saturday. The club will now address the goalkeeper’s situation as the team prepares for the encounter.
Club Thanks Media and Stakeholders
Bendel Insurance also acknowledged the media and other stakeholders who helped address the situation following its earlier AWOL announcement.
The club reiterated its commitment to discipline, professionalism and accountability. However, the management has yet to announce the outcome of any disciplinary proceedings against the goalkeeper.
For now, Baba’s return confirms his reunion with the squad. The next step will be the club’s handling of his absence under the terms of his contract and the relevant football regulations.
Category: NPFL
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