Nigeria Football Legend Peter Rufai Passes Away at 61

Peter Rufai, the former Nigeria national football team goalkeeper, passed away at the age of 61 on Thursday, July 4, 2025, after a long illness. He was known for his role in Nigeria’s 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory and played in two FIFA World Cups. His death has led to tributes from across the football world.

Football Legend Passes Away

Peter Rufai, also known as Dodo Mayana, was one of the best goalkeepers in Nigeria’s football history. He played a major role in the Super Eagles’ 1994 AFCON victory and helped the team reach the last 16 of the FIFA World Cup in both 1994 and 1998. Born in Lagos, he had a successful international career with 65 caps from 1983 to 1998.

His calm presence and strong performances made him a key player during Nigeria’s football golden era in the 1990s.

Nigeria Football Federation Pays Tribute

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) expressed deep sorrow over his passing. In a heartfelt message on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the NFF wrote:

“We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai – a giant of Nigerian football and a 1994 Afcon champion. Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond.”

Rufai’s passing marks the sixth death from the 1994 Super Eagles squad. Others who have passed include Stephen Keshi, Rashidi Yekini, Wilfred Agbonavbare, Thompson Oliha, and Uche Okafor.

A Hero of Nigerian Football

Rufai was widely respected not only for his talent but also for his leadership and sportsmanship. Fans, players, and former teammates remember him as a symbol of pride and professionalism. His performance in Nigeria’s first World Cup appearance in 1994 helped boost the country’s image in international football.

His death is seen as a big loss to the Nigerian football community and beyond.