NFF mourns as Nigeria goalkeeping legend Peter Rufai passes away at 61

The Nigerian football community is in mourning following the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai. The former national team icon died in Lagos on Thursday morning, July 3, 2025, after a brief illness. He was 61.

Rufai, affectionately known as “Dodo Mayana,” was a towering figure in Nigerian football. He served as the Super Eagles’ first-choice goalkeeper at both the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cup tournaments, earning admiration for his composure, leadership, and athleticism between the posts.

According to reports, Rufai passed away around 6 a.m. at a Lagos hospital, where he had been receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness.

In a statement released by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), General Secretary Dr. Mohammed Sanusi expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing Rufai as a national treasure whose contributions to Nigerian football would never be forgotten.

Rufai’s illustrious international career began in December 1981 when he made his debut for the then Green Eagles in a friendly match. Over the next 17 years, he built a remarkable legacy, winning silver medals at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 1984 and 1988, and playing a pivotal role in Nigeria’s historic 1994 AFCON victory in Tunisia.

Off the pitch, Rufai was celebrated for his charisma, discipline, and dedication to nurturing young talent. After retiring from active play, he continued to serve the sport, including a stint as coordinator of Nigeria’s U23 national team.

His club career was equally impressive. Rufai started with Lagos-based Stationery Stores, helping the club reach the final of the African Cup Winners’ Cup in 1981. He later went on to play professionally in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain, becoming one of Nigeria’s most respected football exports.