Nigerians are mourning the loss of one of their most iconic football heroes, Peter Rufai, the legendary former Super Eagles goalkeeper, who passed away in the early hours of Thursday in Lagos at the age of 61 after a brief illness.
Rufai, affectionately known as “Dodo Mayana”, was a national sports treasure and a key figure in Nigeria’s golden era of football. He was part of the victorious Super Eagles squad that won the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Tunisia and represented Nigeria at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups, where the team reached the Round of 16 on both occasions.
Confirming his death, former Nigerian midfielder Waidi Akanni said Rufai’s body had been deposited in a Lagos hospital, sparking an outpouring of grief from fellow footballers, clubs, officials, and fans nationwide.
A Glorious Football Career
Born on August 24, 1963, Rufai debuted for Nigeria in 1981 in a friendly match and went on to win AFCON silver medals in 1984 and 1988 before claiming the gold medal in 1994. He served as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper in all three tournaments.
Beyond his international feats, he was a standout for Stationery Stores FC of Lagos, helping the club reach the 1981 African Cup Winners’ Cup final. His club career spanned Belgium (Lokeren, Beveren), the Netherlands (Go Ahead Eagles), Spain (Deportivo La Coruña, Hércules), and Portugal (Farense, Gil Vicente).
After retiring, Rufai dedicated himself to football development, mentoring young players and at one time serving as coordinator of Nigeria’s U-23 team.
As Nigerians continue to reflect on his remarkable life and career, Peter Rufai’s name remains etched in the annals of football history — a towering figure whose legacy will inspire generations.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced by the family in the coming days.
