Football Coaches Association of African Nations Mourns Death of Nigerian Coaching Icon Adegboye Onigbinde

FCAAN pays tribute to Nigerian coaching legend Adegboye Onigbinde. The former Super Eagles boss and FIFA expert passed away days after his 88th birthday.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 10, 2026, 8:40 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Independent

A Monumental Loss for African Coaching

The continental football community was plunged into mourning following the announcement that Adegboye Onigbinde passed away just four days after celebrating his 88th birthday. In an official statement issued on Tuesday, the Football Coaches Association of African Nations (FCAAN) expressed deep sadness over the loss of a man described as a trailblazer in Nigerian coaching. According to FCAAN Media Head Femi Amusan, Onigbinde’s career was defined by a commitment to excellence that spanned several decades, leaving an indelible mark on the sport across Africa and beyond.

The Academic Legacy of a Master Tactician

Onigbinde was widely recognized not just for his work on the touchline, but for his profound dedication to the intellectual side of the game. FCAAN President Dr. Terry Eguaoje recalled the veteran coach’s pivotal role during the organization's launch in Nigeria, where he delivered a passionate plea for the advancement of coaching education. According to Eguaoje, Onigbinde believed that the future of African football depended on the rigorous training of its instructors. This philosophy continues to serve as a foundational pillar for coaches across the continent who seek to emulate his professional standards.

A Distinguished Career Across Elite Levels

The late coach’s resume reads like a history of Nigerian football’s most significant eras, featuring successful tenures with prominent clubs and the national team. Onigbinde notably led the Water Corporation and IICC teams before ascending to the helm of the Green Eagles and later the Super Eagles. His expertise was eventually recognized on the global stage, leading to his appointment as a CAF instructor and a valued member of the FIFA technical study group. According to FCAAN leadership, his deep tactical knowledge and respected presence in international football circles provided Nigerian coaching with a rare level of global prestige.