Nigeria is mourning the loss of Peter Rufai, fondly remembered as Dodomayana, the legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper who died in Lagos at 61, after battling a long-term illness, NaijNaira can report.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, Rufai passed away on Thursday, leaving behind a legacy that reshaped Nigerian football for decades.
He captained the Super Eagles and played in two FIFA World Cups—USA 1994 and France 1998—earning 65 national team caps.
Rufai was part of Nigeria’s historic 1994 Africa Cup of Nations triumph in Tunisia, playing a key role in the country’s golden era of football.
He broke new ground as the first Nigerian goalkeeper to play professionally in Europe, turning out for clubs in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain.
Former Super Eagles coach Kadiri Ikhana said, “Rufai was a dedicated sportsman who gave his all to the growth and development of football in Nigeria.”
He recalled Rufai’s impact at Stationery Stores of Lagos, describing him as “a great goalkeeper whose contributions were immense and unforgettable.”
Ikhana added, “It’s really sad to lose another legend, coming shortly after the demise of Christian Chukwu. May Rufai’s soul rest in perfect peace.”
Beyond the pitch, Rufai earned respect for mentoring young players through his Staruf Football Academy and the Dodomayana Soccerthon project.
These grassroots efforts helped groom a generation of Nigerian talents who blended sport with education.
Nigeria Football Federation President Ibrahim Gusau said Rufai was “a true Nigerian legend who inspired generations of players and fans.”
Born into royalty in Idimu, Lagos, in 1963, Rufai walked away from kingship to follow his dream of playing football.
Funeral arrangements will be announced by his family.
Article updated 3 months ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
