The family of late Nigerian football legend Adegboye Onigbinde has released details of his burial and thanksgiving ceremonies, marking the final farewell to a figure widely regarded as one of the country’s most influential football tacticians.
According to a statement issued by the family, the burial rites will begin on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, with a Service of Songs in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The programme will continue on Thursday, June 25, featuring a novelty football match between legends from Oyo and Osun States at Modakeke Islamic Grammar School, and followed by another Service of Songs at his residence in Modakeke, Osun State.
The ceremonies will conclude on Friday, June 26, with a thanksgiving and outing service, at St. Stephen Cathedral, Itaasin Street Modakeke, alongside a reception in Modakeke event center, Ondo road, Modakeke, Odún State.
Onigbinde, who passed away at the age of 88, was celebrated for his discipline-driven coaching philosophy and commitment to long-term football development.
Popularly known as “The Teacher,” he earned widespread respect for his principled approach to the game and his role in advancing indigenous coaching in Nigeria.
His career highlights include leading the Nigerian national team to the final of the 1984 Africa Cup of Nations and later managing the squad at the FIFA World Cup co-hosted by Korea and Japan. At club level, he guided Shooting Stars SC to the final of the African Cup of Champions Clubs in 1984.
Beyond coaching, Onigbinde contributed to football development as a technical instructor with global and continental governing bodies, including FIFA and CAF.
He also held a traditional title as the Ekerin Balogun of Modakeke, underscoring his influence outside the sport.
His death has been described as the end of an era in Nigerian football, with tributes continuing to pour in from former players, colleagues, and fans.
Many have highlighted his enduring legacy, particularly his emphasis on structure, discipline, and professionalism within the game.
Family members, associates, and the broader football community are expected to gather across Ibadan and Modakeke in the coming weeks to honour his life and contributions.
Packaged by Lanre Olabisi
