Former Super Eagles Coach Adegboye Onigbinde Passes Away at 88
Nigeria’s football community is mourning the loss of former Super Eagles coach, Adegboye Onigbinde, who died on Monday, March 9, 2026, at the age of 88, just four days after celebrating his birthday. Onigbinde, a trailblazer in Nigerian football, was the first indigenous coach to lead the national team, achieving this feat in 1983.
Onigbinde’s family announced his passing in a statement, describing him as a “great man, a Modakeke High Chief, father, husband, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend”. The family expressed gratitude for his life and contributions to Nigerian football, stating, “We thank God for the fulfilled life and your contributions to the Nigerian nation and the world as an unequalled football coach”.
A respected football tactician and administrator, Onigbinde had two stints as Super Eagles coach, leading Nigeria to the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations final and the 2002 FIFA World Cup. He also guided Shooting Stars Sports Club (IICC) of Ibadan to the African Cup of Champions Clubs final in 1984.
Onigbinde’s legacy extends beyond his coaching achievements, as he played important roles in football administration and technical development, serving as Technical Director of the Nigeria Football Federation and as a technical instructor for CAF and FIFA.
Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced by the family.
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