By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
The Super Eagles have expressed grief over the death of former national team coach, Festus Onigbinde, who led Nigeria to the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Japan and South Korea.
Onigbinde, who turned 88 on Thursday, 5 March, 2026, died on Monday, 9 March, 2026.
His family announced his passing in a WhatsApp message signed by Bolade Adesuyi, describing him as a respected figure in Nigerian football and a community leader.
The family paid tribute to his life and legacy while offering prayers for his eternal rest.
“A respected football figure and community leader… your soul will rest perfectly in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ,” the message read.
Meanwhile, the Super Eagles paid tribute to the late coach in a statement posted on Tuesday via X, describing him as a devoted servant of Nigerian football.
“We commiserate with the family of our former coach, Festus Adegboyega Onigbinde, following his passing. A respected leader and a true servant of Nigerian football. Rest in peace, Coach,” the team said.
Onigbinde first handled the national team, then known as the Green Eagles, between 1982 and 1984. During that period, he guided Nigeria to the final of the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations, where the team lost 3–1 to Cameroon.
He later returned to the national team in 2002 after replacing the late Shuaibu Amodu and subsequently led Nigeria to the FIFA World Cup in Japan and South Korea.
However, the Super Eagles exited the tournament at the group stage after suffering defeats to Argentina and Sweden and recording a draw against England.
Following his coaching career, Onigbinde remained actively involved in football development.
He later served as a technical instructor for both the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA, contributing to the growth and training of coaches across the continent.
