Former Super Eagles coach, Onigbinde for burial June 26 in Modakeke hometown

Former Super Eagles coach, Onigbinde for burial June 26 in Modakeke hometown

... Oyo, Osun States football legends to honour him with novelty match in Ibadan June 25

The family of late Nigerian football icon, Adegboye Onigbinde, has officially announced the burial and thanksgiving arrangements for the revered tactician, drawing the curtain on a remarkable life that shaped generations of Nigerian football.

According to details released by the family, www.sportsunlimited.com.ng gathered that the final rites for the elder statesman, who passed on at the age of 88, will commence on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, with a Service of Songs in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Activities will continue on Thursday, June 25, with a novelty match involving legends from Oyo and Osun States, a suitable tribute to a man whose life revolved around the beautiful game; before another Service of Songs in Modakeke, Osun State.

The burial ceremonies will culminate on Friday, June 26, with a thanksgiving and outing service, followed by a reception in Modakeke.

Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most principled and technically astute coaches, Onigbinde carved a niche as a pioneer of indigenous coaching excellence.

Fondly known as “The Teacher,” his philosophy centred on discipline, structure, and long-term football development, values that earned him immense respect both locally and internationally.

Onigbinde’s coaching legacy remains deeply etched in the annals of Nigerian football. He guided the Nigeria national football team to the final of the Africa Cup of Nations in 1984, narrowly missing out on continental glory.

Nearly two decades later, he returned to lead the national team at the FIFA World Cup in Korea/Japan, stepping in under challenging circumstances and once again answering the nation’s call.

At club level, he also made a lasting impact, guiding Shooting Stars SC to the final of the African Cup of Champions Clubs in 1984, further cementing his reputation as a master tactician.

Beyond the touchline, Onigbinde contributed immensely to football development as a technical instructor for global and continental bodies, including FIFA and CAF. His influence extended into traditional leadership, where he served as the Ekerin Balogun of Modakeke, reflecting his stature beyond sports.

His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy remains firmly alive in the structure, discipline, and professionalism he instilled in Nigerian football.

As family, friends, former players, and the football community gather to bid him farewell, tributes continue to pour in for a man whose contributions transcended generations.