One of Nigeria’s most respected football tacticians, Adegboye Onigbinde, who made history as the first indigenous coach to lead the Super Eagles to the 2002 FIFA World Cup, has died at the age of 88.
Onigbinde first handled Nigeria’s national team in 1983 after succeeding Brazilian coach Otto Glória. During that spell, he guided the Green Eagles to the final of the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations, where Nigeria finished as runners-up after an impressive campaign.
Nearly two decades later, the veteran tactician returned to the national team and etched his name into the country’s football history by becoming the first Nigerian coach to lead the Super Eagles to the World Cup, managing the team at the 2002 tournament co-hosted by Japan and South Korea.
Known for his discipline, tactical intelligence and passion for youth development, Onigbinde remained an influential figure in Nigerian football even after retiring from active coaching.
His legacy continues to resonate across the Nigerian football community, where he is widely regarded as one of the pioneers who helped shape the growth and identity of the game in the country.
