Legendary Nigerian Goalkeeper Peter Rufai Dies at 61
Peter Rufai, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated footballers and former Super Eagles goalkeeper, has reportedly passed away at the age of 61 after a long illness.
According to Radio Nigeria, Rufai died in the early hours of Thursday morning, July 3. Although his family is yet to issue an official statement, a senior Lagos State Government official has confirmed the sad news.
Rufai, fondly known as “Dodo Mayana,” was widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s greatest goalkeepers. He earned 65 international caps, represented Nigeria in two FIFA World Cups, and was part of the squad that won the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Tunisia.
A Career That Spanned Two Decades and Four Countries
Born on August 24, 1963, in Lagos, Rufai began his football journey with local clubs Stationery Stores and Femo Scorpions, before moving to AS Dragons in Benin Republic in 1986.
His professional career saw him travel across Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain, playing for clubs such as Lokeren, Beveren, Go Ahead Eagles, Farense, Hércules, Deportivo La Coruña, and Gil Vicente. At Farense, his standout performances helped the club qualify for the UEFA Cup for the first time in its history.
He also spent two seasons at Deportivo La Coruña as a backup to Cameroonian goalkeeper Jacques Songo’o, even keeping a clean sheet in a rare appearance during a 1–0 win against CD Tenerife in 1998.
A National Icon
Rufai’s presence between the posts was crucial during Nigeria’s golden generation of the 1990s. He helped the Super Eagles qualify for their first-ever World Cup in 1994 and featured again in France 1998. His leadership and consistency made him a fan favourite across the country.
Though no official family statement has been released yet, tributes from fans, former teammates, and sports officials have started pouring in on social media and sports platforms. Many remember Rufai not only for his skills on the pitch but also for his humility and professionalism.
His death marks a huge loss for Nigerian football, as the country mourns a man who gave his all for the green and white jersey.
