ABUJA- National Chairman of the Nigeria Football Supporters Club, Samuel Ikpea, has mourned former Super Eagles coach, Festus Onigbinde, urging Nigerians to celebrate the legacy of the coaching icon.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Onigbinde, a respected Nigerian football tactician and administrator, reportedly died at the age of 88, throwing the football community into mourning.
Ikpea described the passing of the Modakeke High Chief as a huge loss to Nigerian and African football.
He said that the late coach contributed immensely to the development of the game across the continent.
Onigbinde previously handled IICC Shooting Stars and led Nigeria to the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
Ikpea said the late coach’s achievements and dedication to football development would remain unforgettable.
“While his passing is painful, Nigerians should celebrate a life dedicated to service, discipline and the growth of football,” Ikpea said.
He described Onigbinde as a teacher, mentor and tactician who inspired generations of coaches and players.
According to him, the late coach’s legacy goes beyond trophies, noting that his greatest impact was in shaping football philosophy and discipline.
“Baba Onigbinde was more than a coach. He was a father figure in Nigerian football and a man who believed strongly in local coaching talents,” Ikpea said.
Ikpea urged football administrators and stakeholders to honour the late tactician with a befitting burial.
He called on young coaches to study Onigbinde’s methods and commitment to professionalism.
“The best tribute we can give him is to preserve his ideals of discipline, patriotism and dedication to football development,” Ikpea said.
He added that the supporters club would continue to celebrate the memory of the late football icon.
Ikpea prayed for God to grant the late coach eternal rest and comfort his family and associates.
“On behalf of the Nigeria Football Supporters Club, we pray God grants Baba Onigbinde eternal rest and the family strength to bear this great loss,” he said. (NAN)
