OBITUARY
BREAKING! Former Super Eagles Coach and Ex-International Monday Sinclair Passes On
By KUNLE SOLAJA
Nigerian football has been thrown into mourning following the death of former national team player and coach, Monday Sinclair.
His passing was announced on Facebook by former Super Eagles goalkeeper and media officer, Idah Peterside.
Sinclair, a respected figure in Nigerian football circles, is remembered both for his exploits on the pitch in the 1960s and his contributions on the sidelines as a coach and grassroots developer of talent.
Peterside, in his tribute, recalled that Sinclair gave him his first professional break at the now-defunct Sharks FC of Port Harcourt—a gesture that launched Peterside’s journey to national prominence.
Born in the pre-independence era, Sinclair made his debut for the Nigerian national team on February 27, 1963, during a Kwame Nkrumah Cup clash in Accra, where the Green Eagles (as they were then called) suffered a 4–0 defeat to Senegal.
Despite the heavy loss, Sinclair would go on to become one of the key players in Nigeria’s football development during the formative years of international competition.
He returned to the national spotlight decades later when he was appointed interim coach of the Super Eagles in 1997 following the departure of French tactician Philippe Troussier.
Though his tenure was short-lived and low-profile, Sinclair led the team through friendly matches in Tunisia and Zambia, with striker Kenneth Zeigbo emerging as a standout performer under his guidance.
Beyond the national team, Sinclair was revered as a grassroots coach and a relentless talent scout. His coaching philosophy emphasised free-flowing football and player development—an approach that saw him nurture several stars who would later shine in both domestic and international arenas.
His passing adds to a growing list of notable Nigerian figures lost in July 2025, contributing to what has been a sombre month for the nation’s football community.
Tributes have continued to pour in across social media and from football administrators, former players, and fans who remember Sinclair as a passionate mentor, a football purist, and a quiet but effective force in Nigeria’s football history.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by his family in the coming days.
Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H
The President of the Confédération of African Football (CAF), Dr Patrice Motsepe, has expressed profound sorrow following the death of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari.
In an official statement released by CAF, Dr Motsepe extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of the African football body and its 54 member associations to the late leader’s family, the Government of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and its President, Ibrahim Musa Gusau, as well as the entire Nigerian populace.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of the former President of Nigeria, His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari,” Dr Motsepe stated. “On behalf of CAF and its Member Associations representing 54 African countries, I extend our deep condolences to his family, the Government of Nigeria and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigeria Football Federation and its President Ibrahim Musa Gusau, and the People of Nigeria.”
Reflecting on his personal encounter with the late President, Dr Motsepe said: “I had the honour of meeting President Muhammadu Buhari and was impressed by his commitment and passion for Nigerian football. President Buhari will forever live in our hearts and minds. May his soul rest in peace.”
President Buhari, who led Nigeria from 2015 to 2023, was known for his unwavering support for Nigerian sports, particularly football, and played a key role in several national team successes during his tenure.
Join the Sports Village Square channel on WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vaz7mEIGk1FxU8YIXb0H
As a mark of national mourning, President Tinubu has ordered that Nigerian flags be flown at half-staff. This act is done to show respect across the country.
The current administration holds deep respect for the former leader. Vice President Shettima’s mission is to accompany the body back home.
He twice served as Nigeria’s president from 2015 to 2023. Earlier, he was military head of state between 1984 and 1985.
Details of the funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in accordance with Islamic rites.
The federal government is also expected to organize a state funeral in honour of the late president.
His legacy spans decades of public service. It includes national leadership and political transformation.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to travel to the United Kingdom to accompany the remains of former President Muhammadu Buhari back to Nigeria following the elder statesman’s death in London earlier today.
The late President Buhari died at approximately 4:30 p.m. after a prolonged illness, according to an official statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
In response to the solemn development, President Tinubu has spoken with the late President’s widow, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, and extended his condolences on behalf of the nation.
Eniola Bolaji Dominates Women’s SL3 at Abia National Open Para Badminton Championship
BREAKING! Former Super Eagles Coach and Ex-International Monday Sinclair Passes On
Morocco’s Raja Casablanca Eye Nigeria’s Stanley Nwabali in Goalkeeper Reinforcement Bid
- WAFCON1 week ago
Tensions Flare as Algeria Politicizes 2025 Women’s AFCON in Morocco
- OBITUARY3 days ago
BREAKING: Former Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari Dies at 81
- La Liga1 week ago
Former Real Madrid manager and Brazil Coach, Carlo Ancelotti sentenced to prison
- Nigerian Football4 days ago
Ex-NFF President Maigari Pays Solidarity Visit to Recuperating Ibrahim Galadima in Kano
- MEDIA6 days ago
Mumini Alao to Launch Autobiography with High-Profile Guests Set to Attend
- WAFCON5 days ago
Ghana’s hopes hang in the Balance after a 1-1 draw with Mali
- Nigerian Football1 day ago
Legacy Renewed: Taiwo Lekan-Salami Charts Bold Path for Shooting Stars Revival
- OBITUARY3 days ago
VP Shettima to Accompany Buhari’s Remains from UK as Nation Mourns Former President