The Nigerian football Federation (NFF), has continued to mourn the loss of one of its greatest icons, Peter Rufai, the former Super Eagles goalkeeper and 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) winner, who passed away in the early hours of Thursday in Lagos at the age of 61 after a brief illness.
Rufai, affectionately known as Dodo Mayana, was a towering figure between the posts for Nigeria, earning legendary status with his performances during the country’s golden football era in the 1990s.
His death has sent shockwaves through the football community.
Former international teammate Waidi Akanni confirmed that Rufai’s remains have been deposited at a Lagos hospital morgue.
The Nigeria Football Federation described him as “a giant of Nigerian football,” posting on X (formerly Twitter):“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 football personalities have joined in paying tribute.
Super Eagles legend Segun Odegbami, visibly shaken, said, “I know he’s been ill and that he was in the hospital for a while. Now, I am at a loss.”
Former No.10 Etim Esin, a longtime teammate, was equally heartbroken:“Oh God! Dodo Mayana is dead. This is a great loss. We played together; I can’t imagine he’s gone.”
Another ex-Super Eagles goalkeeper, Dele Aiyenugba, who idolized Rufai, said:“It’s really sad because he was someone I looked up to. It’s an honour to be counted among goalkeepers who shared that Eagles jersey with him.”
Current Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa also paid tribute:“Your heroic reflexes and unwavering presence brought us pride. Your legacy soars higher than any trophy. Fly high, Dodo Mayana — the nation mourns a hero.”
Condolences have also come from clubs, fans, and political leaders.
Nigeria Premier Football League champions Remo Stars expressed “deep shock,” while former Vice President Atiku Abubakar said:“His death is a profound loss to the global football community.
Peter Rufai’s remarkable contributions to the beautiful game will always be remembered.”
A Career That Defined an EraBorn on August 24, 1963, Rufai debuted for the then-Green Eagles in 1981.
He went on to win AFCON silver medals in 1984 and 1988 before lifting the trophy in 1994 — Nigeria’s second continental title.
He was the team’s first-choice goalkeeper in three AFCON tournaments and starred at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups, helping Nigeria reach the round of 16 on both occasions.
Domestically, Rufai became a club hero at Stationery Stores, where he played a pivotal role in the club’s 1981 run to the final of the African Cup Winners’ Cup.
He also had stints across Europe, including spells at Lokeren and Beveren (Belgium), Go Ahead Eagles (Netherlands), Deportivo La Coruña and Hércules (Spain), and Portuguese clubs Farense and Gil Vicente.
After hanging up his gloves, Rufai remained active in Nigerian football, mentoring young goalkeepers and briefly serving as a coordinator for the U-23 national team.
Peter Rufai’s legacy lives on in the hearts of fans and generations of Nigerian footballers.
He was more than a goalkeeper — he was a symbol of excellence, resilience, and leadership.