The Nigerian football community is in mourning following the death of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, who passed away in Lagos at the age of 61 after a brief illness.

The former national team captain, affectionately known as Dodo Mayana, died in the early hours of Wednesday, July 3, according to a statement released by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF).

We are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our greatest football icons. Peter Rufai will always be remembered for his immense contributions to Nigerian football, both on and off the pitch,” said NFF General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi

Peter Rufai was one of Nigeria’s most celebrated goalkeepers, earning over 60 caps for the Super Eagles between 1981 and 1998. He played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s historic 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory, and featured prominently in two FIFA World Cup tournaments – USA ’94 and France ’98.

He also represented Nigeria at the 1984 and 1988 AFCON finals, where the team finished as runners-up.

Rufai’s club career saw him rise through the ranks at Stationery Stores in Lagos before moving abroad, where he played in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain, including stints with Hércules CF and Deportivo La CCoruña.

A Prince Who Chose the Pitch

Born into royalty, Peter Rufai was a prince of the Idimu Kingdom in Lagos State. Despite his royal lineage, he famously turned down the throne to pursue his passion for football – a decision that inspired millions.

Following his retirement from professional football, Rufai dedicated his time to youth development, running football academies in Nigeria and Spain. His Staruf Academy trained dozens of aspiring footballers and promoted grassroots sports development.

Tributes Pour In

Tributes have poured in from across Nigeria and the global football family.

President Bola Tinubu, in a condolence statement, described Rufai as “a patriotic sportsman who brought glory to Nigeria and inspired a generation.”

Labour Party’s Peter Obi called Rufai “one of Nigeria’s finest,” praising his leadership on the field and his humility off it.

Several former teammates and current players — including Segun Odegbami, Ahmed Musa, and Vincent Enyeama — also paid tribute to the late goalkeeper, describing his death as “a monumental loss.

Dodo Mayana,' 10 Things To Know About Super Eagles Legendary Goalkeeper, Peter Rufai - Platformsafrica

Final Journey

Family sources say burial arrangements are underway, with the funeral expected to take place in Lagos in the coming days. The NFF has pledged to collaborate with the family to ensure he is given a befitting farewell.

A Legacy That Lives On

Peter Rufai leaves behind a lasting legacy — not only as a football legend but as a symbol of discipline, determination, and national pride. For many Nigerians, he will forever remain the fearless goalkeeper who stood tall when it mattered most.

May his soul rest in perfect peace

Nigerian Football Legend Peter Rufai Dies at 61

Comments (0)