Ismaila Mabo, the former coach of the Super Falcons, passed away in the early hours of Monday morning at the age of 78.

Mabo had been battling an illness for some time and passed away at his residence in Jos, the capital of Plateau State.

Mabo, a legendary captain of the Mighty Jets of Jos and ex-international, had confirmed in January that he was battling an illness after the death of his wife.

He was regarded as the most successful Nigerian coach in women's football and had led the Falcons to their best-ever performance at the Women's World Cup, a quarter-final finish in 1999. He was also the coach of the team at the 2000 and 2004 Olympic Games.

Funeral prayers for the late coach will be held at 10 am on Monday. Mabo's contributions to Nigerian football will always be remembered, and his passing is a significant loss for the sport.