Onigbinde, first Super Eagles indigenous coach, dies at 88

Sports

SPORTS (NPA) —March 10, 2026—Nigeria has lost one of its greatest football icons, Chief Festus Adegboye Onigbinde, the first indigenous coach of the Super Eagles. He passed away on Monday at the age of 88, just days after celebrating his birthday on March 5. His death was confirmed in a family statement issued by Mrs. Bolade Adesuyi, who described him as a devoted father, husband, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, as well as a towering figure in Nigerian and global football.

Onigbinde’s coaching career spanned decades, marked by discipline, tactical brilliance, and a commitment to youth development. He first managed the then Green Eagles between 1982 and 1984, guiding Nigeria to the final of the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations, where they finished runners-up after losing 3–1 to Cameroon. That same year, he also led Shooting Stars Sports Club (IICC) of Ibadan to the final of the African Cup of Champions Clubs, narrowly losing to Egypt’s Zamalek.

Nearly two decades later, Onigbinde returned to the national team in 2002, replacing the late Shuaibu Amodu. He became the first indigenous coach to lead Nigeria to the FIFA World Cup, taking charge of the Super Eagles at the tournament in South Korea and Japan. Despite Nigeria’s early exit after defeats to Argentina and Sweden and a draw with England, his appointment marked a historic milestone in Nigerian football.

Beyond his national team duties, Onigbinde served as Special Adviser on Football to the Osun State Government and remained an influential voice in football administration. Known for his forthright views, he often criticized maladministration in Nigerian sports, urging reforms to strengthen the country’s footballing structures.

Tributes have poured in for the Modakeke High Chief, with many hailing his contributions to the game and his role in shaping Nigerian football. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in due course.

Chief Festus Adegboye Onigbinde leaves behind a legacy of excellence, resilience, and dedication to the sport he loved. His passing marks the end of an era, but his impact on Nigerian football will endure for generations.