Former Super Eagles coach Chief Festus Adegboye Onigbinde has died at 88, his family announced Monday via a statement signed by Mrs. Bolade Adesuyi.
“With great gratitude to God for a life well spent, we announce the passing of this great man: a Modakeke High Chief, the 1st indigenous Nigerian Super Eagles football coach, father, husband, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend,” the statement read.
The family hailed his fulfilled life and contributions as an unequalled coach, praying his soul rests in the bosom of the Lord Jesus Christ.
Onigbinde made history as Nigeria’s first indigenous national team coach from 1983-1984, leading the Green Eagles to Africa Cup of Nations silver after a final loss to Cameroon.
He returned to steer the Super Eagles to the 2002 FIFA World Cup in South Korea and Japan, cementing his legacy in Nigerian football.
