Former Super Eagles coach Festus Adegboye Onigbinde has died at the age of 88. Onigbinde, a revered figure in Nigerian football, passed away on Monday, March 9, according to a statement from his family signed by Mrs. Bolade Adesuyi.
The statement described him as a Modakeke High Chief and the first indigenous coach of the Nigerian national football team. It highlighted his multiple roles as a father, husband, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend. “With great gratitude to God for a life well spent, we announce the passing of this great man: a Modakeke High Chief, the 1st indigenous Nigerian Super Eagles football coach, father, husband, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend – High Chief Festus Adegboye Onigbinde,” the family said.
Onigbinde’s career in Nigerian football was marked by historic achievements. He first took charge of the national team between 1983 and 1984. During this period, he guided the Green Eagles to a silver medal at the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations after a final loss to Cameroon. His coaching extended decades later, when he led the Super Eagles to the 2002 FIFA World Cup in South Korea and Japan.
The family statement praised Onigbinde’s contributions to Nigerian football and the world at large. It added a spiritual farewell: “We thank God for the fulfilled life and your contributions to the Nigeria nation and the world as an unequalled football coach. We pray that your soul will rest perfectly in the bosom of your and our Lord Jesus Christ. Good night till we meet to part no more.”
Onigbinde’s influence went beyond tactics and victories. He shaped generations of players, setting a standard for discipline and commitment in Nigerian football. His legacy remains a benchmark for coaches in Africa and a source of national pride.
