High Chief Festus Adegboye Onigbinde, former Super Eagles coach and one of Nigeria’s most respected football figures, has passed away at the age of 88.
His family announced his death on Monday in a WhatsApp broadcast message signed by Mrs. Bolade Adesuyi, confirming that the renowned football coach and Modakeke high chief died a few minutes before the announcement was made.
“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,” the family statement read.
The family expressed appreciation for what they described as a fulfilled life dedicated to service, particularly in the development of Nigerian football.
“We thank God for the fulfilled life and your contributions to the Nigerian nation and the world as an unequalled football coach,” the statement continued. “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.”
High Chief Onigbinde is widely regarded as one of the pioneers of modern football coaching in Nigeria. Over several decades, he played a key role in shaping the country’s football development and mentoring generations of players and coaches.
One of the most memorable moments of his coaching career came in 1984 when he took charge of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan and guided the team to the final of the Africa Club Champions Cup. The Ibadan-based club eventually finished as runners-up after losing the final to Egypt’s Zamalek.
He also made history as the first indigenous Nigerian coach to lead the Super Eagles to a FIFA World Cup, when he managed the national team at the 2002 FIFA World Cup in South Korea and Japan.
Following the announcement of his passing, members of Nigeria’s football community, sports administrators, and fans across the country have begun paying tributes to the late coach, describing him as a pioneer, mentor, and patriot whose contributions to the game will remain unforgettable.
Just a few weeks before his passing, the Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Rt. Hon. Philip Shaibu, paid a courtesy visit to Chief Onigbinde at his residence in Modakeke, Ife, Osun State.
The visit, which included senior officials of the NIS and the President of the Nigeria Football Coaches Association, Coach Ladan Bosso, was described as more than an official engagement. It was seen as a gesture of respect and recognition for a lifetime dedicated to the growth and development of Nigerian football.
The family has stated that details of the funeral arrangements will be announced at a later date.
