Following the death of former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu mourns
President Bola Tinubu has paid tribute to former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, who died on Thursday at the age of 61.
In a statement issued by his spokesman Bayo Onanuga, the president described Rufai as a “patriotic sportsman” who left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s football history.
“He wrote his name in gold in Nigeria’s football history and across the African continent,” Tinubu said.
“I recall with fond memories the heroic contributions of Peter Rufai in the historic victory of the Super Eagles at the 1994 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia as the first-choice goalkeeper. Rufai was also a strong member of the team at the subsequent edition of the competition in France in 1998.
Rufai, fondly called “Dodo Mayana,” began his career with Stationery Stores of Lagos in 1980 and went on to play professionally in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal and Spain.
“Having started his career with Stationery Stores of Lagos in 1980, Rufai was one of the earliest footballers in Nigeria to go professional, playing in many European countries including Belgium, Spain, Portugal and the Netherlands, bringing honour to the nation and opening a new window of opportunities for young footballers in Nigeria,” Tinubu said.
He also acknowledged Rufai’s post-retirement contribution to grassroots football development.
“After he retired from active football, Peter, a Prince of the Royal House in Idimu, Lagos, set up the Staruf Football Academy, where he continued to inspire, mentor and nurture young footballers,” the president added.
Tinubu condoled with Rufai’s family, friends and the football community, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.
Rufai, who made 65 appearances for Nigeria, was in goal when the country won the Africa Cup of Nations in 1994. He also represented Nigeria at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups.
Following news of his death, tributes have poured in from fans, players and officials.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) said it was “shocked” by the news, with General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi saying, “We did not even know that he had been ill. We earnestly pray… to grant him eternal rest.”
Rangers International, though he never played for the club, described him as an inspiration, while Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa wrote on social media: “Can’t believe I’m typing this – a post to bid farewell to a true giant of Nigerian football.”
Former Anambra State governor Peter Obi also wrote, “Rest in power, Peter Rufai, our Dodo Mayana… unarguably one of Nigeria’s finest goalkeepers… may his legacy continue to inspire generations to come.”
Born on August 24, 1963, Rufai was regarded as one of Nigeria’s most reliable goalkeepers, known for his composure and leadership on the pitch.
He is survived by his wife and children.