NIS Boss Mourns Passing Of Coaching Icon Adegboye Onigbinde

The Nigerian sports community is in mourning following the passing of legendary football coach, Chief Adegboye Onigbinde, who “passed onto the glory on Monday.” Comrade Philip Shaibu, Director General of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), expressed a “mixed feeling” of gratitude for a life well-spent and sadness over the missed opportunity to further benefit from his wisdom.

In a statement, Comrade Shaibu lauded Onigbinde as “the first indigenous coach of the Super Eagles” and a man who “left a footprint on the sand of time.” He recounted a recent visit on February 9, 2026, when he led an NIS delegation to Onigbinde’s Modakeke residence, describing him as “a pillar in the foundation of Nigerian football.” Shaibu reiterated the NIS’s commitment to honouring sports legends while they are alive.

Shaibu emphasized that Coach Onigbinde “represents an era of discipline, courage, and football intelligence,” and that his legacy will serve as an inspiration for future coaches. “Nigeria will miss his wealth of experience,” he added. The NIS extended its prayers for eternal rest for Onigbinde’s soul and fortitude for his family to bear the “irreparable loss.”