Adegboye Onigbinde, Nigeria’s first indigenous Super Eagles coach and a pioneer of African football, has died at 88. He led Nigeria to the 1984 AFCON final and the 2002 FIFA World Cup
Former Super Eagles Coach Adegboye Onigbinde Dies at 88
Nigeria has lost one of its greatest football minds. High Chief Festus Adegboye Onigbinde, the first indigenous coach of the Super Eagles, passed away at the age of 88.
His family confirmed the news in a WhatsApp broadcast signed by Bolade Adesuyi, stating: “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, who passed unto the great beyond a couple of minutes ago.”
Born on March 5, 1938, Onigbinde carved his name into Nigerian football history. He led the Super Eagles to the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations final, where Nigeria finished as runners-up to Cameroon.
He returned in 2002 to guide the team to the FIFA World Cup in Japan and South Korea, fielding a youthful squad. Though Nigeria exited in the group stage after losses to Argentina and Sweden and a draw with England, Onigbinde’s tenure shaped the careers of future stars like Jay-Jay Okocha and Julius Aghahowa.
Despite criticism over his squad selections, Onigbinde remained a respected figure in African football. He later served as a technical instructor for CAF and FIFA, mentoring coaches across the continent.
His passing marks the end of an era for Nigerian football, but his legacy as a pioneer and teacher will endure.
