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Former Super Eagles coach Adegboye Onigbinde has passed away at the age of 88, bringing to an end the life of one of Nigeria’s most respected football tacticians and administrators.
His family confirmed his death on Monday, revealing that the veteran coach died peacefully just minutes before the announcement was made.
The announcement was contained in a statement issued by Bolade Adesuyi on behalf of the family. In the message, the family described the late football icon as a man who lived a fulfilled life and made remarkable contributions to Nigerian football and society at large.
The statement also highlighted his roles beyond football, noting that he was a Modakeke High Chief, a devoted father, husband, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
“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 Adegboye Onigbinde,” the statement read.
The family expressed appreciation for the legacy he left behind, particularly his dedication to the development of football in Nigeria.
They prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul, saying they were grateful for the impact he made on the nation and the global football community.
Nicknamed the “Modakeke-born Sweat Merchant” by Nigerian sports journalists, Onigbinde built a reputation as a disciplined and hardworking coach who devoted several decades to the growth of the sport.
He is widely remembered for his leadership and technical contributions to the Nigeria national football team, where he served in different capacities during his career.
Onigbinde first coached the national team between 1982 and 1984. During that period, he guided Nigeria to the final of the 1984 African Cup of Nations, where the team finished as runners-up after losing 3–1 to Cameroon national football team.
Following his time with the national team, Onigbinde took charge of Shooting Stars Sports Club in 1984. Under his leadership, the club reached the final of the African Cup of Champions Clubs, narrowly losing to Egyptian giants Zamalek SC.
Years later, he returned to the Super Eagles setup in 2002 after the dismissal of the coaching crew led by Shuaibu Amodu. He was tasked with leading Nigeria to the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
At the tournament, Nigeria faced tough opposition in the group stage. The team lost 1–0 to Argentina national football team after a goal from Gabriel Batistuta, suffered a 2–1 defeat against Sweden national football team despite taking the lead, and played out a goalless draw with England national football team.
Beyond coaching, Onigbinde also contributed significantly to football development globally, serving as a technical instructor for both Confederation of African Football and FIFA.
In a past interview with BBC Sport, the late coach explained that he dropped his baptismal name “Festus” in 1960 after concluding it did not have a meaningful interpretation for him. He adopted “Adegboye,” which he said means “a child born to reclaim a chieftaincy title.”
The family noted that details regarding his funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date. His death has left many in Nigeria’s football community reflecting on the legacy of a man who dedicated his life to the sport and played a major role in shaping the history of the Super Eagles.
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