President Bola Tinubu has condoled with the family and associates of renowned football administrator and former Nigeria national team head coach, Festus Adegboye Onigbinde over his death.
He described the late football tactician as a disciplined and principled figure whose integrity, vision, and enduring passion for the beautiful game left an indelible mark on Nigerian football.”
The President in a condolence message issued on Tuesday by his Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, commended the contributions of the Modakeke high chief to the development of grassroots football and to the strengthening of football administration in Nigeria.
President Tinubu extended his condolences to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the National Sports Commission (NSC), professional colleagues and fans of the administrator who distinguished himself as the first indigenous coach of the Super Eagles in 1982.
The President acknowledged the historic leadership of Onigbinde, who guided the Super Eagles to the finals of the Africa Cup of Nations in 1984.
President Tinubu prays for the repose of the departed and comfort for his family.
Onigbinde, The Teacher
Onigbinde was born on 5th March,.1938 and died on 9th March, 2026 (four days after his 88th birthday). He was a legendary Nigerian football coach, renowned for being the first indigenous manager to lead the Super Eagles to an Africa Cup of Nations final (1984) and the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
Known as “The Teacher,” he was a pioneer in developing modern Nigerian football tactics and coaching.
Career Highlights
National Team Coach: Twice managed the Super Eagles (1982–1984, 2002).
1984 AFCON: Guided Nigeria to the final in Ivory Coast, losing 3-1 to Cameroon.
2002 World Cup: Took over on the eve of the tournament, managing Nigeria in Korea/Japan and famously starting goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama against England.
Club Level: Led Shooting Stars SC of Ibadan to the 1984 African Cup of Champions Clubs final.
Technical Authority: Served as a FIFA and CAF technical instructor, heavily influencing coaching education and scouting.