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Nigeria Mourns as Former Super Eagles Coach Festus Adegboye Onigbinde Dies at 88

Published by Samuel Ayomide on March 10th, 2026.

Nigeria’s football community has been thrown into mourning following the death of former national team coach Festus Adegboye Onigbinde, who passed away at the age of 88.

His family confirmed the news in a statement issued shortly after his passing, describing him as a revered football figure, respected community leader, and devoted family man whose contributions to Nigerian football will long be remembered.

The statement, signed by Bolade Adesuyi, expressed gratitude for a life dedicated to service and excellence both within and beyond the sporting arena.

Onigbinde, a High Chief in Modakeke, was widely regarded as one of the pioneers of modern football coaching in Nigeria. He made history as the first indigenous Nigerian to manage the country’s senior national football team, now known as the Super Eagles.

During his first stint with the national team between 1983 and 1984, he guided the then Green Eagles to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations in 1984, where Nigeria finished as runners-up after losing to Cameroon.

Years later, Onigbinde returned to the national team setup and led Nigeria to qualification for the 2002 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by South Korea and Japan.

Beyond his achievements on the pitch, Onigbinde was respected for his dedication to youth development and his efforts to promote professionalism in Nigerian football.

Tributes have begun pouring in from across the sports community, with many describing him as a trailblazer whose influence helped shape the growth of the game in Nigeria.

He is survived by his children, grandchildren, and extended family members who say his legacy of leadership, discipline, and commitment to national development will endure.