Festus Adegboye Onigbinde, one of Nigeria’s most respected football tacticians, has died at the age of 88. His passing has drawn tributes from Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigeria Football Federation.
In a statement released by the president’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu expressed sympathy to the late coach’s family and associates, describing him as a distinguished football administrator and national team coach.
The president also extended condolences to the Nigeria Football Federation, the National Sports Commission, professional colleagues, and football fans across the country.
Tinubu praised Onigbinde for his significant role in developing football in Nigeria, particularly at the grassroots level, and acknowledged his contributions to strengthening football administration.
He also recognised the former coach’s achievements with the national team, especially when he led the Super Eagles to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations in 1984.
According to the president, Onigbinde will be remembered for his discipline, integrity, vision, and deep commitment to football.
Tinubu prayed for the peaceful repose of the late coach’s soul and for comfort for his family.
NFF Pays Tribute
The Nigeria Football Federation also honoured the late coach, describing his death as a major loss to Nigerian football.
In a statement, the federation said the passing of its former Technical Director and two-time head coach of the national team marked the departure of a man who served the country’s football with dedication and passion.
The NFF’s General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, said Onigbinde made remarkable contributions not only to Nigerian football but also to the sport across Africa and internationally.
He noted that the veteran coach remained committed to football development throughout his life and continued offering guidance and advice on the growth of the game even in his later years.
Sanusi added that the football community would deeply miss his experience and wisdom.
A Remarkable Football Career
Onigbinde built a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most influential football coaches and administrators, with a career spanning several decades.
He obtained a German Grade A coaching licence in 1976, becoming one of the early Nigerian coaches to achieve such a qualification. Five years later, he expanded his technical expertise by attending a coaching programme in Brazil.
In 1982, he was appointed head coach of the Nigeria national football team, making him one of the earliest indigenous coaches to lead the team.
During his tenure, Nigeria reached the final of the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations but finished as runners-up after losing to Cameroon national football team. The achievement made him the first Nigerian coach to guide the country to a medal in the tournament.
At the club level, Onigbinde also enjoyed success with Shooting Stars Sports Club. In 1984, he led the team to the final of the African Cup of Champions Clubs, where they narrowly lost to Egyptian side Zamalek SC.
Earlier, in 1977, he guided Water Corporation FC to the quarter-finals of the same competition, further cementing his reputation as a top tactician.
Nearly two decades later, he returned to manage the national team and led Nigeria to the 2002 FIFA World Cup. During the group stage, the Super Eagles narrowly lost to Argentina national football team and Sweden national football team, while drawing with England national football team.
Beyond coaching, Onigbinde held several important administrative roles. He served as Technical Director of the Nigeria Football Federation and also worked as a Technical Adviser to the Trinidad and Tobago Football Federation, where he supervised youth development programmes.
He was also involved with the Confederation of African Football and FIFA through various technical study groups during major tournaments.
In later years, he focused on coaching education, helping train football instructors across Africa.
His family confirmed his death in a statement, expressing gratitude for a life well lived.
They described him as a father, husband, grandfather, brother, and friend whose legacy in football will continue to inspire future generations.
Onigbinde is survived by his children, grandchildren, and other family members. Funeral arrangements will be announced later.
