Nigeria’s football community is in mourning following the death of legendary goalkeeper Peter Rufai, fondly known as ‘Dodomayana’. Rufai passed away on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at the age of 61, after a prolonged illness.
Rufai’s illustrious career saw him become one of the most iconic figures in Nigerian football. He was a key member of the Super Eagles squad that clinched the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations title and played in two FIFA World Cups, including Nigeria’s debut appearance in 1994. The Super Eagles squad mourned the loss of their legendary goalkeeper, describing him as a “giant of Nigerian football” and a “1994 AFCON champion”.
Rufai played a crucial role in Nigeria’s historic victory in the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations and featured prominently in two World Cups. He had a successful professional career, playing in several European countries, including Belgium, Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands. After retiring from football, Rufai set up the Staruf Football Academy, where he mentored and nurtured young footballers.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed great sadness at the passing of the legendary goalkeeper, describing him as a patriotic sportsman who wrote his name in gold in Nigerian and African sports history. The President recalled Rufai’s heroic contributions to the Super Eagles, particularly in their historic victory at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia and Nigeria’s first appearance at the FIFA World Cup in the USA in 1994.
Tinubu also noted that Rufai was one of the earliest Nigerian footballers to go professional, playing in many European countries and bringing honor to the nation. After retiring from football, Rufai set up the Staruf Football Academy, where he inspired, mentored, and nurtured young footballers. The President prays for comfort for all who mourn Rufai’s loss and for the repose of his soul.
The football community, including former players and coaches, have paid tribute to Rufai’s contributions to Nigerian football. His legacy will live on in the hearts of Nigerian football fans, and his impact on the sport will continue to be felt for generations to come.
