Tinubu Mourns Football Legend Festus Onigbinde

Tinubu Mourns Football Legend Festus Onigbinde

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Nigeria’s football icon, Festus Adegboye Onigbinde, who passed away at the age of 88.

In a statement issued in Abuja by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President extended his condolences to the late coach’s family, the Nigeria Football Federation, the National Sports Commission, and football fans across the country.

Tinubu described Onigbinde as a respected football administrator and tactician who made remarkable contributions to the growth of the sport in Nigeria. He noted that the late coach played a pioneering role as the first indigenous coach of the Nigeria national football team in 1982 and was instrumental in promoting grassroots football development.

Under his leadership, Nigeria reached the final of the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations, a milestone that strengthened his reputation as one of the country’s most influential football figures.

The President praised Onigbinde for his discipline, integrity, foresight, and passion for football, noting that his legacy would continue to inspire generations of players, coaches, and sports administrators.

Tinubu also prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed and asked God to grant comfort and strength to his family and loved ones.