Bendel Insurance Football Club has announced the passing of former head coach Lawrence Akpokona, a landmark figure in the club’s modern history whose leadership delivered major continental success and multiple regional trophies.
Akpokona died on Friday, 26 June 2026, following a long illness.
In a condolence statement signed by General Manager Charles Ihimekpen, Bendel Insurance said the club’s story cannot be told without recognising Akpokona’s accomplishments. He is credited with steering the team to victory in the 1994 CAF Cup and winning two WAFU Cup titles, achievements that helped cement his reputation as one of the club’s most influential managers.
The statement also highlighted his contribution beyond matchdays, praising his role in nurturing players and building talent pipelines. It further noted his later coaching stints with Ocean Boys FC and Julius Berger, describing those periods as part of a wider managerial career.
“We will surely miss him, but we are consoled by his legacy of football talent development in our club and country,” the club said.
