The Nigerian football community has been plunged into deep sorrow once more following the heartbreaking death of former Super Eagles goalkeeper and 1994 AFCON champion, Peter Rufai, who reportedly passed away at the age of 61 on Thursday.
Rufai was said to have died in Lagos in the early hours of Thursday following a brief illness.
Former Nigerian midfielder Waidi Akanni confirmed that the body of Rufai had been deposited at a Lagos hospital.
The NFF described him 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 X.
“We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai. Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well.”
Ex-Eagles captain, Segun Odegbami told our correspondent he was aware the goalkeeper had been battling illness but is presently shocked about his death.
“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.”
Former Eagles No.10, Etim Esin who was his teammate in the 90s, was deeply 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 sadness at the death of Rufai.
“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,” Aiyenugba told our correspondent.
Super Eagles skipper and Kano Pillars forward, Ahmed Musa also paid tribute to the goalkeeper.
“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 also sent condolences to the ex-Eagles goalkeeper’s family.
“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 Nigeria Vice President, Atiku Abubakar also said, “It is with deep sorrow that I mourn the passing of our legendary national team goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, popularly known as Dodo Mayana.
Born on August 24, 1963, the late Peter Rufai was more than just a goalkeeper he was a national treasure. He made his debut for the then Green Eagles in 1981 and was Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper in three AFCON tournaments, winning silver in 1984 and 1988 before helping Nigeria lift the trophy in Tunisia 1994.
Rufai also stood tall at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups, leading the Super Eagles to back-to-back round of 16 finishes. After retirement, he passionately mentored young talent and once served as coordinator for Nigeria’s U-23 team.
At club level, he shone for Stationery Stores in Lagos, reaching the 1981 Africa Cup Winners’ Cup final, and went on to play in Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain, and Portugal, making his mark in European football with clubs like Lokeren, Beveren, Go Ahead Eagles, Deportivo La Coruna, and Gil Vicente.
His legacy as a national hero and football icon will never be forgotten.
