Nigeria’s football community is mourning the death of Peter Rufai, one of the country’s greatest goalkeepers, who died at the age of 61. Rufai, popularly known as “Dodo Mayana,” passed away in Lagos in the early hours of Thursday after a brief illness. His body was confirmed to be at a Lagos hospital by former Nigerian midfielder Waidi Akanni.
Rufai was widely celebrated for his outstanding performances as the first-choice goalkeeper for the Super Eagles. He played a key role in Nigeria’s football history, helping the team win the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 1994 and reaching the final in 1984 and 1988. He also represented Nigeria at the FIFA World Cup in 1994 and 1998, where the team reached the round of 16 both times.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) described Rufai as “a giant of Nigerian football” and one of its most iconic players. In a tribute posted on X,
The NFF wrote: “Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana. We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai. Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well.”
Former teammates and footballers have expressed deep sadness at his passing. Segun Odegbami, ex-Eagles captain, said he knew Rufai had been ill but was shocked by the news of his death. Etim Esin, who played alongside Rufai in the 1990s, said, “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, said, “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.”
Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa also paid tribute, saying, “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, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also sent heartfelt condolences to Rufai’s family and the Nigerian football community. Atiku said, “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.”
“Your heroic reflexes and unwavering presence between the posts brought us moments of pride on the world stage.”
— Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa
Peter Rufai was born on August 24, 1963, and made his debut for the Green Eagles in a friendly match in December 1981. He played for several clubs in Nigeria and abroad, including Stationery Stores (Nigeria), Lokeren and Beveren (Belgium), Go Ahead Eagles (Netherlands), Deportivo La Coruna and Hercules (Spain), and Farense and Gil Vicente (Portugal).
After retiring, Rufai devoted his time to mentoring young players and served as the coordinator of the Nigeria U-23 team. His dedication to the sport and his influence on Nigerian football will be remembered for many years to come.
Summary Table: Key Facts About Peter Rufai
| Achievement/Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Birth | August 24, 1963 |
| Debut for Nigeria | December 1981 |
| AFCON | Winner (1994), Runner-up (1984, 1988) |
| FIFA World Cup | 1994, 1998 (Round of 16 both times) |
| Clubs | Stationery Stores, Lokeren, Beveren, Go Ahead Eagles, Deportivo La Coruna, Hercules, Farense, Gil Vicente |
| Nickname | Dodo Mayana |
| Post-retirement | Mentor, U-23 team coordinator |
In Conclusion
Peter Rufai’s death is a great loss for Nigerian football. Tributes from teammates, officials, and fans show the deep respect and love he earned throughout his career. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of footballers in Nigeria and beyond.
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