RismadarVoice Reporters, March 10, 2026
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sympathy to the family, friends, and associates of renowned football administrator and former Super Eagles head coach, Chief Adegboye Onigbinde, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88.
The President also extended his condolences to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the National Sports Commission, professional colleagues, and millions of football fans across the country over the death of the respected football tactician.
Tinubu’s condolence message was contained in a statement released on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
In the statement, the President paid glowing tribute to the late sports icon, describing him as a man whose life and career were defined by discipline, integrity, and an unwavering passion for the development of football in Nigeria.
President Tinubu particularly commended Onigbinde’s immense contributions to grassroots football development and the strengthening of football administration in the country, noting that his legacy would continue to inspire generations of Nigerian coaches and football administrators.
The President also acknowledged Onigbinde’s historic role as the first indigenous coach of the Nigerian national team in 1982, a milestone that paved the way for the growth of local coaching talent in Nigerian football.
Tinubu further recalled the late coach’s remarkable leadership in guiding Nigeria to the final of the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations, where the then Green Eagles finished as runners-up after losing 3–1 to Cameroon.
“The accomplished football manager will be remembered for his discipline, integrity, foresight, and passion for the round-leather game,” the President stated.
He prayed for the repose of the soul of the departed football legend, asked God to grant his family the strength and comfort to bear the loss.
The family of the veteran coach announced his passing on Monday in a message signed by Bolade Adesuyi, a member of the family.
Chief Onigbinde enjoyed a distinguished career in Nigerian football, both as a coach and an administrator. He first led the national team, then known as the Green Eagles, between 1982 and 1984, leaving a lasting mark on the team’s development.
Years later, he returned to national duty and guided the Super Eagles to the 2002 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Japan and South Korea. Although Nigeria exited the tournament at the group stage after a narrow 1–0 loss to Argentina, a 2–1 defeat to Sweden, and a goalless draw with England, his leadership during the campaign remained widely respected.
Beyond the national team, Onigbinde also achieved success at the club level. In 1984, he took charge of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan and led the club to the final of the African Cup of Champions Clubs, where they narrowly lost to Egyptian giants Zamalek SC.
Even after stepping away from active coaching, Onigbinde continued to play a vital role in the development of football on the continent. He served as a technical instructor for both the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA, mentoring coaches and contributing to the growth of the game across Africa.
Widely regarded as one of the most respected football tacticians in Nigeria, Onigbinde’s influence extended beyond the touchline, earning him admiration for his professionalism, wisdom, and dedication to the sport.
His passing marks the end of an era in Nigerian football, but his legacy as a pioneer and mentor will endure for years to come.
