Nigeria has been thrown into mourning following the passing of legendary football coach and administrator, High Chief Adegboye “Pa” Onigbinde, who died on Sunday at the age of 88.
The news of his death was announced by the family through Mrs. Bolade Adesuyi, who expressed gratitude to God for what she described as a fulfilled and impactful life.
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According to the statement, the respected football tactician and Modakeke high chief passed away peacefully, leaving behind a rich legacy as a father, husband, grandfather, great-grandfather, mentor and friend.
“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, who passed unto the great beyond a couple of minutes ago.”
The family thanked God for his immense contributions to Nigeria and the global football community, praying that his soul would rest peacefully.
Pa Onigbinde remains one of the most respected figures in Nigerian football history. Born on March 5, 1938, he carved a remarkable career as a coach, technical instructor and football administrator.
He made history as the first indigenous Nigerian coach to lead the Super Eagles to the FIFA World Cup, guiding the national team to the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Korea and Japan.
Earlier in his career, he also led Nigeria to a silver medal at the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.
At the club level, Onigbinde enjoyed notable success with Shooting Stars Sports Club of Ibadan, taking the team to the final of the 1984 African Cup of Champions Clubs.
Beyond coaching, he served as a respected technical instructor for both FIFA and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), playing a major role in the development and education of football coaches across Africa.
A traditional title holder in Modakeke, Osun State, he held the title of Ekerin Balogun of Modakeke, further cementing his status as a revered community leader.
Throughout his life, Pa Onigbinde was widely admired for his technical knowledge, fearless opinions on football administration, and his belief in youth development.
Funeral arrangements for the late football icon are expected to be announced by the family in due course.
