Tinubu grieves passing of ex-Eagles boss Onigbinde -

President Bola Tinubu has expressed condolences to the family of renowned Nigerian football administrator and former Super Eagles head coach, Chief Adegboye Onigbinde, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88.

The President also extended his sympathies to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the National Sports Commission, football professionals, and fans across the country over the loss of the veteran coach.

Tinubu’s message was conveyed in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

In the statement, the President praised Onigbinde for his immense contributions to grassroots football development and sports administration in Nigeria, describing him as a disciplined and visionary football manager who was deeply passionate about the game.

Tinubu also highlighted the late coach’s historic role as the first indigenous coach of Nigeria’s national team in 1982, noting that he led the country to the final of the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations.

“The accomplished football manager will be remembered for his discipline, integrity, foresight, and passion for the round-leather game,” the President said, while also praying for the repose of his soul and comfort for his family.

Onigbinde’s family had earlier announced his passing in a statement signed by Bolade Adesuyi.

During his coaching career, Onigbinde guided Nigeria to the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Japan and South Korea. The Super Eagles exited the tournament in the group stage after defeats to Argentina and Sweden, and a draw against England.

He also managed the national team, then known as the Green Eagles, between 1982 and 1984, leading them to the 1984 AFCON final, where Nigeria finished as runners-up after losing 3–1 to Cameroon.

At club level, he coached Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan and led the team to the African Cup of Champions Clubs final, where they lost to Egypt’s Zamalek SC.

After his tenure with the national team, Onigbinde remained an influential figure in football and later served as a technical instructor for both the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA.