By Erewunmi Peace

Former Super Eagles head coach Adegboye Onigbinde has passed away at the age of 88.

The respected Nigerian football tactician reportedly died on Monday, March 9, 2026. His death has been confirmed by family sources, though details surrounding the cause of his death have not yet been made public.

Onigbinde was widely known for his contributions to Nigerian football and his role in shaping the national team over several decades. He served as head coach of the Nigeria national football team during two different periods in the 1980s and early 2000s.
One of his most notable achievements came when he led Nigeria to the 2002 FIFA World Cup, becoming one of the few indigenous Nigerian coaches to guide the national team to football’s biggest stage.

Earlier in his career, he also led the Super Eagles to the final of the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations, where Nigeria finished as runners-up.

Beyond the national team, Onigbinde played a major role in developing football talent and administration in Nigeria, earning widespread respect within the country’s sporting community.

Tributes have begun pouring in from football fans, administrators, and former players who describe him as a pioneer and a mentor in Nigerian football.

Further details regarding funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by his family in the coming days.