By John Dike, Osogbo
Nigeria’s football community is mourning the death of former Super Eagles coach, Festus Adegboye Onigbinde, who passed away at the age of 88.
The family confirmed his death on Monday, March 9, describing him as a respected football administrator, community leader and mentor who dedicated his life to the development of Nigerian football.
Early Life and Career
Born on March 5, 1938, in Modakeke, Osun State, Onigbinde rose to prominence as one of the pioneering indigenous football coaches in Nigeria. He played a significant role in shaping the country’s football development across several decades.
He first coached the Nigerian national team in the early 1980s and led the then Green Eagles to the final of the 1984 African Cup of Nations, where Nigeria finished as runners-up after losing 3–1 to Cameroon.
Coaching Achievements
Onigbinde later returned to lead the Nigeria national team at the 2002 FIFA World Cup. Although Nigeria exited the tournament without a point, his tenure was remembered for promoting discipline and giving opportunities to young and home-based players.
Beyond the national team, he also coached Shooting Stars Sports Club, leading the club to the final of the Africa Club Champions Cup in 1984, where they narrowly lost to Egypt’s Zamalek SC.
Legacy in African Football
Apart from coaching, Onigbinde served as a technical instructor for the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA, where he helped train and mentor coaches across Africa.
He remained a respected voice in Nigerian football long after his coaching career, often speaking on grassroots development, sports administration and the technical improvement of the game.
A Life Remembered
Onigbinde’s death marks the end of an era in Nigerian football history. Widely regarded as one of the pioneers of indigenous coaching in Nigeria, his contributions helped shape the development of the sport in the country and across Africa.
Tributes are expected to pour in from football administrators, former players, government officials and fans as the nation remembers one of its most respected football tacticians.
May his soul rest in peace.
