President Bola Tinubu has expressed condolences to the family of former Super Eagles head coach and football administrator, Adegboye Onigbinde, who died on Monday at the age of 88.
The President also sympathised with the Nigeria Football Federation, the National Sports Commission, football professionals, and fans across the country over the loss of the respected football tactician.
In a statement released on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu praised Onigbinde’s contributions to Nigerian football, especially his efforts in developing grassroots football and improving football administration in the country.
Tinubu described the late coach as a disciplined and passionate football manager who served the sport with integrity and dedication.
Onigbinde made history as the first indigenous coach to lead the national team in 1982. He later guided Nigeria to the final of the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations, where the team lost 3–1 to Cameroon.
He also led the Super Eagles to the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Japan and South Korea. Nigeria was eliminated in the group stage after losing to Argentina and Sweden, and drawing with England.
Later in 1984, Onigbinde became coach of Shooting Stars Sports Club in Ibadan and led the club to the final of the African Cup of Champions Clubs, where they lost to Egypt’s Zamalek SC.
After leaving the national team, Onigbinde remained active in football and later served as a technical instructor for both the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA.
President Tinubu prayed for the peaceful repose of his soul and comfort for his family during this difficult time.
