Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai has died at the age of 61.
Rufai, popularly known as Dodo Mayana, died on Thursday, after a prolonged illness.
Radio Nigeria confirmed the news, stating that the ex-international died on Thursday morning “following a prolonged illness that had kept him away from the public in recent months.”
Born on August 24, 1963, in Lagos, Rufai made history as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups. He was also part of the Nigerian team that won the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia.
The late goalkeeper earned 65 caps for Nigeria and is widely regarded as one of the country’s finest shot-stoppers.
Rufai began his professional career with Stationery Stores before moving abroad where he played for clubs like Lokeren in Belgium, Go Ahead Eagles in the Netherlands, Farense in Portugal and Deportivo La Coruña in Spain.
At Deportivo, he kept a clean sheet in a 1–0 La Liga win over Tenerife in 1998.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and fans across social media have paid tribute to the football icon.
Afrik-Foot wrote in a tribute:
“Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana. 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. Rest well, Peter Rufai.”
NFF wrote, “Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana.
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. Rest well, Peter Rufai. 💚”
In June 2025, Rufai raised the alarm over identity theft, alleging that unknown persons had hacked his digital and corporate information, including his Nigerian passport. He urged the public and law enforcement to take the matter seriously.
After retirement, Rufai remained involved in football development. He ran a goalkeeper academy and was passionate about mentoring young talents.
Rufai is survived by his wife and children.
Details about his burial have not been announced.