The African Coaches Connect and the football community is in mourning following the death of legendary coach and former Super Eagles player, Monday Sinclair. Fondly known as “The Professor” for his unrivaled knowledge and understanding of the beautiful game, Sinclair passed away this week, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy that has shaped generations of Nigerian footballers and coaches.

Born in Bomadi-Ijaw, Delta State, Sinclair was revered across the country and beyond as the “Godfather of Ijaw football.” His career spanned decades, and his influence on the sport cannot be overstated. Sinclair was renowned for his ability to identify and nurture talent, discovering some of Nigeria’s most iconic footballers including Richard Owubokiri, Finidi George, Taribo West, the late Peter ‘Jaja’ Rufai, Emmanuel “Waist Breaker” Ebiede Inikio, Davidson Owumi, Idah Peterside, and Imama Amapakabo, among many others.

Sinclair’s coaching resume is as illustrious as his playing days. He held the reins at several top Nigerian clubs, including Sharks of Port Harcourt, and led Nzalang Nacional FC in Equatorial Guinea. He also served briefly as interim Head Coach of the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles, in 1997. His commitment to player development and tactical brilliance earned him immense respect across Africa.

The African Coaches Connect (ACC), a pan-African body dedicated to the growth and development of coaching on the continent, expressed deep sorrow at his passing. The ACC joined the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Confederation of African Football (CAF), and the broader football fraternity in paying tribute to a man whose legacy transcended borders.