President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of veteran football administrator and former head coach of the Super Eagles, Festus Adegboye Onigbinde, who died on Monday at the age of 88.
In a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu sympathised with the late coach’s family, friends and associates, describing his passing as a significant loss to Nigerian football.
The President also extended condolences to the Nigeria Football Federation and the National Sports Commission, as well as to colleagues and fans who admired Onigbinde’s contributions to the game.
Onigbinde, a respected football tactician and administrator, made history as the first indigenous coach of the Super Eagles in 1982, a milestone widely regarded as a turning point in the development of local coaching talent in Nigeria.
Tinubu commended the late sports icon for his enduring impact on football development, particularly at the grassroots level, noting that his efforts helped strengthen football administration in the country.
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The President also highlighted Onigbinde’s historic achievement in leading the Super Eagles to the final of the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations, a performance that further cemented his legacy in Nigerian football.
Describing him as a disciplined and visionary leader, Tinubu said the accomplished coach would be remembered for his integrity, foresight and unwavering passion for the sport.
He noted that the late Modakeke high chief dedicated much of his life to nurturing young football talents and advancing the growth of the “round-leather game” in Nigeria.
Tinubu concluded by praying for the peaceful repose of the departed and asking God to grant strength and comfort to his family and loved ones during the period of mourning.