SUPER EAGLES PAY TRIBUTE TO FORMER COACH ONIGBINDE
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By : Muftau Fatimo
The Nigeria national football team have expressed sadness over the death of former head coach, Festus Onigbinde, who guided Nigeria to the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
Onigbinde, who celebrated his 88th birthday on March 5, passed away on Monday. His family confirmed the news in a WhatsApp message signed by Bolade Adesuyi.
They described him as “a respected football figure and community leader,” praying that his soul would “rest perfectly in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
In a statement posted on Tuesday via X, the Super Eagles paid tribute to the late coach.
“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.
Festus Onigbinde first managed the Nigerian national team, then called the Nigeria national football team, from 1982 to 1984. During that period, he led Nigeria to the final of the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations, where they were defeated 3–1 by Cameroon national football team.
He later returned to the role in 2002, succeeding the late Shuaibu Amodu, and guided Nigeria to the 2002 FIFA World Cup. However, the team was eliminated in the group stage after losses to Argentina national football team and Sweden national football team, and a draw with England national football team.
Following his coaching career, Onigbinde continued contributing to the growth of the sport and later worked as a technical instructor for the Confederation of African Football and FIFA.
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