Association of Sports Veterans Grieves Passing of Onigbinde, Nwosu
The Association of Sports Veterans of Nigeria (SVN) has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of two of its pioneer members, Festus Adegboye Onigbinde and Henry Nwosu, describing their deaths as a monumental loss to Nigerian football.
In a statement signed by SVN President Chief Jonathan Ogufere and Secretary Elder Paul Bassey, the Veterans recalled with nostalgia how both men flew the nation’s flag high in the global football arena.
Born in Modakeke, Chief Onigbinde rose to prominence after succeeding Otto Gloria as head coach of the national team, fulfilling the yearning of many Nigerians for a homegrown tactician.
He became the first indigenous coach to lead Nigeria to a silver medal at the 1984 African Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.
Known for his calm touchline demeanor, the Modakeke High Chief also etched his name in history as the first coach, indigenous or foreign, to defeat Ghana in Accra, a feat that paved the way for Nigeria’s participation in the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Japan and Korea.
Onigbinde’s legacy extended beyond victories. He introduced a 17‑year‑old Femi Opabunmi into the 2002 World Cup squad and recommended Vincent Enyeama, who went on to earn over 100 international caps.
In total, he led the Super Eagles in 37 international matches between 1983/1984 and 2002, recording 13 wins, 17 draws, and only 7 losses.
Similarly, the Veterans paid tribute to Henry Nwosu, a frontline ex‑international who was part of Nigeria’s 1980 Nations Cup‑winning squad and represented the country for more than a decade.
Nwosu later assisted Onigbinde during the 2002 FIFA World Cup and brought his wealth of experience to coaching roles with the National U‑17 team, Ibom Stars, Union Bank FC, and Gateway FC.
The Association emphasized that both men will be greatly missed for their imposing records and invaluable contributions to the advancement of football in Nigeria.
