Former Super Eagles coach and ex-Nigeria Football Federation Technical Director, Chief Adegboye Onigbinde, has finally been laid to rest in Modakeke, Osun State
The funeral service, held at Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, attracted prominent personalities from across the country, who paid glowing tributes to the late football icon for his immense contributions to Nigerian and global football.
Among those who honoured the late coach was former Super Eagles captain and coach Augustine Eguavoen, who represented the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). He described Onigbinde as a trailblazer whose intelligence, discipline and dedication helped elevate the reputation of indigenous Nigerian coaches.
Eguavoen also acknowledged the late coach’s personal influence on his football career and praised his lasting contributions to the development of the game.
He said:
“The NFF recognises and appreciates the service of late Chief Onigbinde to our country. He was very energetic and rose to the pinnacle of the profession by dint of hard work, dedication and discipline. He was a towering figure in coaching globally.
“He was the first Nigerian to lead our Eagles to win silver medals at the Africa Cup of Nations, and also became the first Nigerian to lead them at the FIFA World Cup. Even after retirement, he continued to impact highly by serving as a resource person during NFF coaching programmes. His legacy is stout and impressive. The nation will miss him, but we pray for the repose of his soul and for God to comfort the family he has left behind and the Nigeria Football family as a whole.”
Former Super Eagles captain Dr. Felix Owolabi also paid tribute, describing Onigbinde as a man of exceptional football knowledge, integrity and a mentor to many.
The ceremony was attended by former NFF General Secretary Ambassador Fanny Amun, former Super Eagles midfielder Mutiu Adepoju, representatives of the Osun State Government, traditional rulers, former internationals and ex-players of Shooting Stars Sports Club.
The Nigeria Football Federation also supported the burial with a financial donation to the late coach’s family.
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RIP