Former Super Eagles head coach Adegboye Onigbinde has died at the age of 88, bringing to an end the life of one of Nigeria’s most respected football tacticians and administrators.
The veteran coach’s death was confirmed by his family in a statement released on Monday and signed by Bolade Adesuyi, who described the late football icon as a devoted father, community leader and pioneer in Nigerian football.
Onigbinde, a high chief in Modakeke, Osun State, enjoyed a long and influential career in Nigerian football, serving two separate stints as head coach of the national team. He first managed the then Green Eagles between 1981 and 1984, leading Nigeria to the final of the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations, where the team finished runners-up after losing to Cameroon.
Nearly two decades later, he returned to the national team and guided the Super Eagles to the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Japan and South Korea, becoming one of the few Nigerian coaches to lead the country at the global tournament.
Beyond the national team, Onigbinde also made a lasting impact at club level, notably with Shooting Stars Sports Club of Ibadan, where he helped develop players and contributed significantly to the growth of the domestic game.
Widely regarded as a strong advocate for indigenous coaching and grassroots football development, Onigbinde remained a respected voice in Nigerian football long after leaving active coaching. His passing has sparked tributes across the country as the football community reflects on the legacy of a man many consider one of the architects of modern Nigerian coaching.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
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