President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed sadness over the death of former Super Eagles head coach, Festus Adegboye Onigbinde, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88.
The President sympathised with the family, associates and the Nigerian football community over the loss of the respected football administrator.
Tinubu also extended his condolences to the Nigeria Football Federation, the National Sports Commission, professional colleagues and fans of the late tactician.
The condolence message was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Tinubu commended the contributions of the Modakeke high chief to grassroots football development and football administration in Nigeria.
He also acknowledged Onigbinde’s leadership when he guided Nigeria to the final of the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations.
According to the President, the late football manager will be remembered for his discipline, integrity, foresight and passion for the round-leather game.
Tinubu prayed for the repose of the deceased and comfort for his family.
The family of the late coach had earlier announced his death in a message signed by Bolade Adesuyi.
Onigbinde first coached Nigeria’s national team, then known as the Green Eagles, between 1982 and 1984. He later returned in 2002 to lead Nigeria to the 2002 FIFA World Cup in Japan and South Korea after replacing the late Shuaibu Amodu.
Nigeria reached the AFCON final in 1984 under his leadership but lost 3–1 to Cameroon national football team.
After his coaching career, Onigbinde served as a technical instructor for the Confederation of African Football and FIFA.
