A member of Nigeria’s silver winning squad at the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, Paul Okoku has described late Chief Adegboye OnigbindeA member of Nigeria’s silver winning squad at the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, Paul Okoku has described late Chief Adegboye Onigbinde as ‘more than a coach,’ Sports247 reports.
Okoku, who was also in the historic under-20 squad that shook the 1983 World Youth Championship in Mexico, recalled how Onigbinde put so much trust in many young players from his set and went on to excel at the Nations Cup.
He affirmed that, aside his silver-winning heroics at AFCON ’84, the ‘Modakeke High Chief’ also achieved several other amazing things for Nigsrian football, all of which make his death very painful.
The ex-international went down memory lane with a deeply emotional tone, as he posted a long tribute in honour of the late coach, via a popular WhatsApp group.
Okoku noted, “The Nigerian sports fraternity has indeed lost a towering figure with the passing of Adegboye Onigbinde, the revered Modakeke High Chief and former Super Eagles coach.
“Chief Festus Adegboyega Onigbinde was more than a coach; he was a mentor, a disciplinarian, and one of the pioneering indigenous tacticians, who helped shape the development of Nigerian football.
“His belief in organization, discipline, and the development of young players left an enduring mark on the game. I had the privilege of playing under him during the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations.”
The former midfield dazzler and erstwhile ‘school boy international’ went further in his tribute by reeling out several feats and roles that stood Onigbinde out in the annals of Nigerian football.
“I will always remember his courage in trusting young players and giving us the opportunity to represent Nigeria when it mattered most. That confidence helped shape many careers and demonstrated his deep belief in Nigerian talent.
“His contributions to the national team and to the growth of football in our country will not be forgotten. Nigerian football owes a great deal to his dedication, wisdom, and leadership.
“May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire future generations of Nigerian footballers and coaches. Very respectfully,” Okoku submitted.
Sports247 recalls that Onigbinde was also the first indigenous coach to handle the Super Eagles at the World Cup – Korea/Japan 2002 – during which he helped them pull off a stunning draw against England in their last group match.
