BREAKING: Ex-Super Eagles Coach Onigbinde Dies At 88
High Chief Festus Adegboye Onigbinde, a former head coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, has died at the age of 88.
His family announced the news in a statement on Monday evening, giving thanks to God for what they described as a life of purpose and lasting impact.
“With great gratitude to God for a life well spent, we announce the passing of this great man, a Modakeke High Chief, the first indigenous Nigerian Super Eagles football coach, father, husband, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and friend, High Chief Festus Adegboye Onigbinde.
“We thank God for the fulfilled life and your contributions to the Nigerian nation and the world as an unequalled football coach. We pray that your soul will rest perfectly in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ. Good night till we meet to part no more.
“Final funeral arrangements will be communicated later.”
Onigbinde built a remarkable legacy in Nigerian football, earning respect for his work both on the touchline and in football development.
Among the highlights of his coaching career was leading Nigeria to the final of the 1988 Africa Cup of Nations, where the team finished as runners-up following a 3–1 loss to Cameroon.
He also represented the country on the global stage when he managed the Super Eagles at the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Japan and South Korea.
Beyond coaching, Onigbinde contributed to football education as an instructor for the Confederation of African Football and FIFA.
The family said funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
