Tributes Flow as Former Super Eagles Coach Adegboye Onigbinde Laid to Rest
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), alongside prominent Nigerians from diverse walks of life, paid their final respects to former Nigeria coach and one-time NFF Technical Director, Chief Osuolale Bolarinwa Adegboye Onigbinde, at his burial held on Friday at Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, Modakeke, Osun State.
The solemn occasion drew government officials, royal fathers, political leaders, philanthropists, academics, religious figures, retired civil servants, business moguls, and former Nigeria international players, all united in celebrating the life and legacy of the Modakeke High Chief.
Chief Onigbinde, remembered as the first indigenous coach to lead Nigeria’s senior men’s team to the Africa Cup of Nations Final and the first to guide the Super Eagles at the FIFA World Cup, was eulogized by priests and dignitaries for his intellect, discipline, and global impact on football.
He also served as Technical Adviser to Trinidad and Tobago and rose to the position of FIFA Technical Advisor.
Speaking on behalf of the NFF, former Nigeria captain and coach Augustine Eguavoen described Onigbinde as a pathfinder whose mentorship shaped his career.
‘He was very energetic and rose to the pinnacle of the profession by dint of hard work, dedication and discipline. His legacy is stout and impressive. The nation will miss him,’ Eguavoen said.
Dr Felix Owolabi, former Nigeria captain and member of the NFF Technical and Development Committee, praised Onigbinde’s courage, mentorship, and integrity, while other tributes came from Ambassador Fanny Amun MON, NFF’s Director of Communications Dr Ademola Olajire, former captain Mutiu Adepoju, representatives of the Osun State government, royal fathers, and Shooting Stars Sports Club alumni.
The NFF supported the funeral programme financially with a donation to the family, underscoring its recognition of Onigbinde’s immense contributions to Nigerian football.
Chief Adegboye Onigbinde leaves behind a towering legacy as a pioneer of indigenous coaching, a mentor to generations of players, and a global figure in football development.
