Tinubu Mourns Ex-Super Eagles Coach Adegboye Onigbinde at 88

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of veteran football administrator and former national team coach Festus Adegboye Onigbinde, describing his passing as a great loss to Nigerian football.

Onigbinde, a respected sports figure and former head coach of the Super Eagles, died on Monday at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, discipline and commitment to the growth of football in Nigeria.

In a condolence message, President Tinubu sympathised with the family, friends and associates of the late football administrator, noting that his contributions to the development of the sport would remain indelible in the country’s sporting history.

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The President also extended his condolences to the Nigeria Football Federation and the National Sports Commission, as well as professional colleagues and football fans who admired Onigbinde’s dedication to the game.

Tinubu commended the late sports administrator for his pioneering role as the first indigenous coach to lead the national team when he was appointed head coach in 1982.

According to the President, Onigbinde’s leadership marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s football history, paving the way for greater local participation in coaching and sports administration.

The President also acknowledged the historic achievement of the late coach when he guided the national team to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations in 1984, an accomplishment widely remembered as one of the defining moments of his career.

Beyond his achievements at the national level, Tinubu praised Onigbinde’s dedication to grassroots football development, noting that he played a crucial role in nurturing young talents and strengthening football administration across the country.

The President described the Modakeke high chief as a visionary leader whose passion for the round-leather game helped shape the direction of Nigerian football for decades.

“Chief Onigbinde will be remembered for his discipline, integrity, foresight and enduring commitment to the growth of football in Nigeria,” the President said.

Tinubu further noted that the late coach’s contributions extended beyond the pitch, as he mentored many players and administrators who later became influential figures in Nigerian sports.

Tributes have continued to pour in from across the country’s sporting community, with many describing Onigbinde as a trailblazer who helped lay the foundation for Nigeria’s achievements in international football.

President Tinubu prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed sports icon and asked God to grant strength and comfort to his family during this period of mourning.

He also urged the Nigerian sporting community to honour Onigbinde’s legacy by sustaining his passion for excellence and dedication to the development of football in the country.