The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former Super Eagles Head Coach Adegboye Onigbinde, who passed away at the age of 88.
His death was announced in a statement issued by Bolade Adesuyi on behalf of the family.
The NFF described his passing as a major loss to Nigerian football, noting that he served the country with dedication and contributed immensely to the development of the sport.
The NFF General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, described the Modakeke high chief as an extraordinary achiever who left a lasting impact on Nigerian and African football.
“Indeed, a big tree has fallen. Onigbinde lived and breathed football development, and we will miss him greatly,” Sanusi said.
He prayed for eternal rest for the deceased and strength for his family, friends and the football community to bear the loss.
Distinguished Coaching Career
Globally respected for his tactical knowledge, Onigbinde served as Technical Director of the NFF and also worked as Technical Adviser to the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation for youth teams.
He also served as a technical adviser to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and participated in several Technical Study Groups of FIFA at major international tournaments.
Onigbinde began his coaching career in the 1960s and gained national recognition in 1977 after leading Water Corporation FC to the quarter-finals of the African Champion Clubs Cup.
In 1984, he guided Shooting Stars FC to the final of the same continental competition.
Onigbinde made history as the first indigenous coach to lead Nigeria to a medal at the Africa Cup of Nations.
He achieved the feat in 1984, when Nigeria national football team won the silver medal at the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.
He later coached Nigeria at the 2002 FIFA World Cup in South Korea and Japan, becoming the first indigenous coach to lead the team at the global tournament.
During the competition, Nigeria narrowly lost to Argentina national football team and Sweden national football team, while drawing with the England national football team.
After retiring from active coaching, Onigbinde continued contributing to football development as an instructor for the NFF, CAF and FIFA, helping to train coaches and football administrators across Africa.
His legacy remains deeply rooted in the growth of Nigerian football and the development of coaching education on the continent.
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