By Ahmed Ameedat
The Nigerian football community was plunged into mourning on Thursday following the death of former Super Eagles goalkeeper and 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) winner, Peter Rufai. He passed away in Lagos at the age of 61 after a brief illness.
His death was confirmed by former Nigerian midfielder Waidi Akanni, who stated that Rufai’s body had been deposited at a hospital in Lagos.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) paid tribute to the football icon, describing him as “a giant of Nigerian football” and one of the most legendary figures in the country’s football history. “Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana,” the NFF wrote on X. “We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai. Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well.”
Segun Odegbami, former captain of the Super Eagles, expressed shock at the news despite being aware that Rufai had been ill. “I know he’s been ill and that he was in the hospital for a while,” he said. “Now, I am at a loss and need to find out what has happened now.”
Etim Esin, a former teammate of Rufai and ex Eagles No.10, was devastated by the news. “Oh oh God! Dodo Manyana is dead. This is a great loss. We played together; I can’t imagine he’s gone. This is so sad. My condolence to his family and may his soul rest in peace.”
Another former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Dele Aiyenugba, also expressed his sorrow. “It’s really sad because he was someone I looked up to as a goalkeeper. It is a great honour to have been called an ex-Super Eagles goalkeeper alongside someone like that. May God bless his soul,” he said.
Super Eagles captain and Kano Pillars forward, Ahmed Musa, also paid tribute to Rufai. “I can’t believe I’m typing this a post to bid farewell to a true giant of Nigerian football, Peter Rufai. Your heroic reflexes and unwavering presence between the posts brought us moments of pride on the world stage.
“May your spirit continue to inspire future generations of Super Eagles. Though you’ve left us, your legacy soars higher than any trophy. Fly high, DODO MAYANA the nation mourns a hero.”
Nigeria Premier Football League champions, Remo Stars, offered their condolences: “Everyone at Remo Stars is deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden passing of Nigerian goalkeeping legend, Peter Rufai. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and the entire Nigerian football community during this difficult time.”
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also expressed sadness over Rufai’s passing. “It is with deep sorrow that I mourn the passing of our legendary national team goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, popularly known as Dodo Mayana. 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. May his soul rest in eternal peace. Peter Rufai’s remarkable contributions to the beautiful game will always be remembered, and he will be sorely missed.”
Born on August 24, 1963, Rufai made his debut for the then Green Eagles in December 1981. He won AFCON silver medals in 1984 and 1988 before helping Nigeria claim the title in 1994 in Tunisia, serving as the first choice goalkeeper in all three tournaments.
He represented Nigeria at both the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups, helping the Super Eagles reach the Round of 16 in both editions. After retiring, Rufai dedicated himself to mentoring young talents and served as coordinator of the Nigeria U 23 national team.
Rufai also made significant contributions at the club level. He played for Lagos based Stationery Stores, reaching the final of the 1981 Africa Cup Winners Cup. His European career included spells with Lokeren and Beveren in Belgium, Go Ahead Eagles in the Netherlands, and Deportivo La Coruna, Hercules in Spain, and Portuguese sides Farense and Gil Vicente.
