The Nigerian football community is in mourning following the death of former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 61.
Rufai, fondly known as “Dodomayana” by fans, died after a brief illness in Lagos, leaving a void in the nation’s sporting landscape.
Tributes have been pouring in from all corners of the football world, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) leading the condolences.
The President described Rufai as a patriotic sportsman who wrote his name in gold in Nigerian and African sports.
“Rufai’s contributions to Nigerian football will always be remembered,” President Tinubu said.
“He was a key member of the Super Eagles team that won the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and participated in the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups. May his soul rest in peace.”
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also expressed his sadness at the loss of the legendary goalkeeper, saying, “His death is a profound loss to the global football community. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his immediate family and the Nigerian football community.”
The NFF described Rufai as “a giant of Nigerian football” and one of the country’s most iconic players. “Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana,” the NFF wrote on social media.
“We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai. Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well.”
Ahmed Musa, Segun Odegbami, Etim Esin, and Dele Aiyenugba, also paid tribute to the legendary goalkeeper.
Musa said: “Your heroic reflexes and unwavering presence between ...s brought us moments of pride on the world stage. May your spirit continue to inspire future generations of Super Eagles.”
Rufai’s impressive career spanned over two decades, during which he played for several European clubs, including Lokeren and Beveren in Belgium, Go Ahead Eagles in the Netherlands, and Deportivo La Coruna in Spain.
He was also a key member of the Super Eagles team that won the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and participated in the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups.
After retiring from football, Rufai set up the Staruf Football Academy, where he mentored and nurtured young footballers. He also served as the coordinator of the Nigeria U-23 team, leaving a lasting impact on the nation’s football development.
As the nation mourns the loss of a true legend, condolences continue to pour in from all corners of the football community. May his soul rest in peace.