Former Super Eagles Coach, Onigbinde, Passes Away at 88

Chief Festus Adegboye Onigbinde, who led Nigeria’s national football team, the Super Eagles, has passed away at the age of 88.

His family revealed his death in a statement from Mrs. Bolade Adesuyi, stating that the iconic football coach and community leader died on Monday, March 9.

In a heartfelt family statement, they noted, "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."

They further expressed their appreciation for his significant impact on Nigeria and the global football scene, stating, "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 & our Lord Jesus Christ. Good night till we meet to part no more."

Onigbinde made history as Nigeria’s first native coach, having begun his tenure with the national team from 1983 to 1984.

He earned notable recognition for steering the Green Eagles to a silver medal at the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations after a defeat to Cameroon in the final.

Additionally, Onigbinde was at the helm of the Super Eagles during their participation in the 2002 FIFA World Cup co-hosted by South Korea and Japan.