The Nigeria Women Football League (NWFL) has approved the renaming of the Honey Badgers of Makurdi to Benue Queens after the Benue State Government successfully took over the club.

This approval, conveyed in a letter by NWFL Chief Operating Officer Modupe Shabi, followed a thorough verification process confirming the government’s compliance with all requirements for the transition.

Effective immediately, Benue Queens will inherit all fixtures, points, and standings of the Honey Badgers in the NWFL Premiership.

Shabi highlighted the significance of the transition, emphasising the Benue State Government’s commitment to meeting NWFL regulations and protecting the league’s integrity. “The rigorous process ensures only serious, business-minded individuals or groups take ownership, and we are satisfied with the Benue State Government’s compliance,” she said.

The move coincides with a milestone for the club, as they celebrate promotion to the NWFL Premiership this season, having risen from the lower divisions.

Benue Queens will debut in the league against Robo Queens in Lafia, Nasarawa State, on January 15, 2025. They are grouped with established teams such as Naija Ratels, Ibom Angels, Delta Queens, and others in Group B.