Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former national team coach, Festus Adegboye Onigbinde, describing him as a legendary figure in Nigerian football.
Eko Hot News reports that the respected football tactician passed away on Monday at the age of 88. Onigbinde was widely recognised for his contributions to the development of football in Nigeria and across the African continent.
Governor Sanwo-Olu described the late coach as a national icon who made remarkable contributions to the growth of the sport. He said Onigbinde’s legacy would remain an inspiration to future generations of coaches and football enthusiasts.
In a statement issued by the Governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, Sanwo-Olu noted that Nigeria had lost one of its most respected football professionals.
The Governor recalled Onigbinde’s achievements during his career, including leading the Nigeria national football team to the 2002 FIFA World Cup hosted in Japan and South Korea.
Sanwo-Olu also highlighted the late coach’s role in guiding the Green Eagles to the final of the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations. His contributions during that period helped strengthen Nigeria’s presence in continental football competitions.
Beyond the national team, Onigbinde also made significant contributions at club level. In 1984, he coached Shooting Stars Sports Club and led the team to the final of the Africa Club Champions Cup.
The Governor further noted that the late coach served the football community beyond the field. Onigbinde worked as a technical instructor for the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and FIFA, sharing his expertise with football professionals across the world.
Sanwo-Olu described him as a respected leader whose dedication to the sport earned him admiration among players, administrators and supporters.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the late coach and the government of Osun State, where the football legend hailed from.
The Governor also sympathised with the Nigeria Football Federation and the wider football community over the passing of the renowned sports figure.
Sanwo-Olu urged family members, colleagues and admirers of the late coach to take comfort in the impactful life he lived. He emphasised that Onigbinde’s legacy would continue to shape the future of Nigerian football.
The Governor also offered prayers for the peaceful rest of the late coach, expressing hope that his family and the football community would find strength and comfort during this period.
Observers within the sports sector have continued to recognise Onigbinde’s influence on football development. Many have described him as one of Nigeria’s most respected football tacticians.
Chief Festus Adegboye Onigbinde will be remembered for his commitment to the growth of football and his lasting contributions to the sport in Nigeria and beyond.
