President Tinubu and NFF Release Heartfelt Tributes as Nigeria Mourns Former Super Eagles Coach
President Bola Tinubu and the Nigeria Football Federation have penned their heartfelt condolences to the family of Festus Onigbinde, the former Super Eagles coach who passed away after a brief illness on Monday, March 9, 2026. The legendary football tactician died at the age of 88, leaving behind a profound legacy in Nigerian and African football.
President Tinubu Expresses Great Sadness Over Onigbinde's Demise
In a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, President Bola Tinubu expressed great sadness over the death of Festus Onigbinde. The President condoled with the Nigeria Football Federation and the National Sports Commission, extending his sympathies to the family of Nigeria's first indigenous coach.
President Tinubu commended Onigbinde's significant contributions to the development of grassroots football and the strengthening of football administration in Nigeria. He acknowledged the historic leadership of Chief Onigbinde, who guided the Super Eagles to the finals of the Africa Cup of Nations in 1984. Tinubu also extended his condolences to Nigerian coaches and fans of the administrator who distinguished himself as the first indigenous coach of the Super Eagles in 1982.
Nigeria Football Federation Bids Farewell to a Football Icon
The Nigeria Football Federation has described the passing of Festus Onigbinde as the loss of a great man who served the nation with passion. In a statement signed by the NFF General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, the federation stated that the Osun-born tactician dedicated his life to the development of football.
The NFF added that the Modakeke High Chief was an extraordinary achiever who made a positive impact on the growth of the game in Africa. The statement read: "Indeed, a big tree has fallen. Chief Onigbinde ate, drank, breathed, slept and lived football development. We will miss him greatly, as he was never tired of giving advice on the game's development even at his ripe old age. We pray that God will grant him eternal rest, and also grant his family, relations, friends and the Nigeria football fraternity the fortitude to bear the big loss."
Football Fans and Sympathisers Flood Social Media with Tributes
Tributes from fans and sympathisers have flooded social media platforms to pay their final respects to the legend. One user, @adebary22, said: "Baba really contributed his quota while he was alive, he is a legend of the game. He will be sorely missed."
Another user, @AwalMoHudu, wrote: "Too bad to hear the death of former top Nigerian coach Festus Adegboye Onigbinde. He was the Super Eagles coach at 2002 FIFA World Cup after taking over from Amodu Shaibu." @TateMichael1 added: "High Chief Onigbinde. He was a great coach and highly respected in the football industry in Nigeria. May his soul rest in peace."
@HonNonsoNwankwo said: "May God Almighty gives his family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. May his soul rest in peace. Amen." The outpouring of grief highlights the deep impact Onigbinde had on Nigerian football and its passionate followers.
Onigbinde's Legacy in Nigerian Football
Festus Onigbinde's career was marked by significant achievements, including leading the Super Eagles to the AFCON finals in 1984 and coaching the team at the 2002 FIFA World Cup. His dedication to grassroots football development and administrative strengthening left an indelible mark on the sport in Nigeria. As the nation mourns, his contributions continue to be celebrated by football enthusiasts across the country.
