Nigeria Mourns as Super Eagles Legend Peter Rufai Dies at 61

Nigerian football was once again plunged into grief following the death of Peter Rufai, the legendary former Super Eagles goalkeeper and 1994 AFCON champion. Rufai, fondly known as Dodo Mayana, passed away in Lagos in the early hours of Thursday after a short illness. He was 61.

His passing was confirmed by former midfielder Waidi Akanni, who stated that Rufai’s remains had been taken to a hospital in Lagos. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) hailed Rufai as “a giant of Nigerian football,” praising his lasting influence on and off the pitch.

In a tribute shared 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 Super Eagles captain Segun Odegbami expressed shock, recalling that Rufai had been ill and hospitalized for a while. “I’m still trying to understand what has just happened,” he said.

Etim Esin, a former teammate, was visibly shaken. “Oh God! Dodo Mayana is gone. This is heartbreaking. We played side by side… I can’t believe he’s no longer with us. My heartfelt condolences to his family.”

Ex-Super Eagles goalkeeper Dele Aiyenugba, who admired Rufai as a role model, said, “It’s painful. Being mentioned in the same breath as him is a great honour. May God grant him eternal peace.”

Current Super Eagles captain and Kano Pillars forward, Ahmed Musa, also paid tribute. “I can’t believe I’m writing this. You were a titan, a national hero. Your brilliance brought us unforgettable moments. Fly high, Dodo Mayana your legacy is forever.”

Nigeria Premier Football League champions, Remo Stars, also mourned his loss, expressing deep sadness and offering condolences to his family and the wider football fraternity.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar joined the chorus of tributes, describing Rufai’s death as “a profound loss to the global football community.” He praised Rufai’s legacy and extended sympathy to his family and fans.

Born on August 24, 1963, Rufai debuted for the then Green Eagles in 1981. He won AFCON silver medals in 1984 and 1988 before helping Nigeria claim the title in 1994. He also manned the goalposts at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups, both of which saw Nigeria reach the Round of 16.

After retiring, he dedicated himself to developing young talent, once serving as the U-23 national team coordinator. Rufai also left a mark at Lagos-based Stationery Stores and played club football across Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain, and Portugal.

Peter Rufai’s legacy is not just in his saves, but in the inspiration he passed down through generations, a hero, gone, but never forgotten.