Former Super Eagles head coach High Chief Festus Adegboye Onigbinde has d!ed at the age of 88, bringing to an end the life of one of Nigeria’s most respected football tacticians
His family confirmed the development in a statement issued on Monday evening, describing his journey on earth as meaningful and impactful.
“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.”
Throughout his long career in football, Onigbinde made remarkable contributions both in Nigeria and across Africa. He also worked as a technical instructor for the Confederation of African Football and FIFA, helping to shape coaching development on the continent.
One of his most notable achievements came in 1988 when he led the Nigerian national team to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations. The team eventually finished second after a 3–1 defeat to Cameroon.
Years later, he returned to the dugout to manage Nigeria at the 2002 FIFA World Cup, which was jointly hosted by Japan and South Korea.
The family said details regarding his burial arrangements will be announced at a later date.
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