President Bola Tinubu has led the nation in mourning the passing of High Chief Festus Adegboye Onigbinde, the legendary former Super Eagles head coach and pioneer football administrator who died on Monday at the age of 88.
In an official statement released by the State House on Tuesday, President Tinubu described the Modakeke high chief as a "colossus" whose influence on Nigerian sports was unparalleled. The President extended deep condolences to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the National Sports Commission, and the global football community, noting that the late manager’s transition marks the departure of a true elder statesman.
President Tinubu praised Onigbinde’s historic leadership, specifically highlighting his feat as the first indigenous coach to lead the Super Eagles, a role he first assumed in 1982. The President emphasised that Onigbinde will be remembered for his unwavering discipline, integrity, and foresight, qualities that helped strengthen football administration across Africa.
The late veteran’s career was defined by several landmark achievements, including guiding Nigeria to a silver-medal finish at the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire. He later returned to the national helm to lead the Super Eagles during the 2002 FIFA World Cup in South Korea and Japan. Beyond the touchline, he served as a vital technical advisor to both CAF and FIFA.
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State also reacted to the news, describing the loss as "painful and devastating" for the people of Modakeke and the state at large. In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Adeleke remarked that Onigbinde dedicated his life to grooming talents and shaping the economic direction of his community through sports.
"His loss will leave a big void not just on the pitch but in his hometown," Governor Adeleke stated. He urged the football fraternity to honour the late tactician's memory by sustaining his legacy of grassroots development and technical excellence.