Nigeria’s football community is in mourning following the passing of former Super Eagles coach, Festus Adegboye Onigbinde, who died at the age of 88.
His family confirmed the development in a statement signed by Mrs. Bolade Adesuyi, describing the late football icon as a devoted family man, respected community leader, and one of Nigeria’s most influential football coaches.
“With great gratitude to God for a life well spent, we announce the passing of this great man: a Modakeke High Chief, the first indigenous Nigerian Super Eagles football coach, father, husband, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend – High Chief Festus Adegboye Onigbinde,” the statement read.
The family praised his lifelong contributions to Nigerian football and prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul.
Onigbinde made history as the first indigenous coach of Nigeria’s national team, leading the then Green Eagles between 1983 and 1984.
Under his leadership, Nigeria finished as runners-up at the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations after losing to Cameroon national football team in the final.
Years later, he returned to guide the Nigeria national football team to the 2002 FIFA World Cup, further cementing his legacy in Nigerian football history.
Tributes have begun pouring in from former players, football officials, and fans who remember him as a pioneer whose dedication helped shape the growth of football in Nigeria.
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