The Nigerian football fraternity is in mourning following the passing of legendary tactician and former Super Eagles manager, Chief Adegboye Onigbinde, at the age of 88.
The family confirmed the passing of Nigeria’s first indigenous coach of the Super Eagles in a statement issued by Bolade Adesuyi, describing him as a revered football figure whose impact extended beyond Nigeria.
“With gratitude to God for a life well spent, we announce the passing of High Chief Festus Onigbinde, a Modakeke High Chief and Nigeria’s first indigenous Super Eagles coach,” the statement said.
Adesuyi described the late coach as a devoted father, husband, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend, noting that his contributions to Nigerian and global football were significant.
The family expressed gratitude to God for his fulfilled life and prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul, adding that funeral arrangements would be announced in due course. Onigbinde celebrated his 88th birthday on March 5th.
He first managed the national team, then known as the Green Eagles, between 1982 and 1984. During that period, he guided Nigeria to a runners-up finish at the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations, where the team lost 3–1 to the Cameroon national football team in the final.
Onigbinde returned to lead the Super Eagles in 2002, replacing the late Shuaibu Amodu. He subsequently guided Nigeria to the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
Nigeria exited the tournament at the group stage after losing 1–0 to the Argentina national football team and 2–1 to the Sweden national football team, before drawing goalless with the England national football team.
Beyond coaching, Onigbinde also served as Special Adviser on Football to the government of Osun State, contributing to football development at the grassroots and administrative levels.
He is widely regarded as one of the pioneers who helped shape modern Nigerian football.