Nigeria has lost more than a footballer—it has lost a legend, a leader, and a national treasure.
The death of former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, fondly remembered as “Dodo Mayana,” has plunged the nation into mourning. The 61-year-old icon passed away in Lagos after a brief illness, leaving behind an indelible legacy that transcends the game.
Guardian of the Goal, Hero of the Nation
Born on August 24, 1963, in Lagos, Rufai began his goalkeeping journey with Stationery Stores before embarking on a two-decade career that took him across Europe—from Belgium’s Lokeren and Beveren, to the Netherlands’ Go Ahead Eagles, Portugal’s Farense, and Spanish sides including Hércules, Deportivo La Coruña, and Gil Vicente.
Wearing the green and white jersey of Nigeria, Rufai stood tall between the posts in 65 international appearances, notably starring in the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups. He was instrumental in Nigeria’s historic AFCON victory in 1994, delivering match-winning saves that helped shape the country’s golden football era. In a rare feat for a goalkeeper, Rufai even scored a penalty for Nigeria against Ethiopia in 1993—a testament to his boldness and skill.
A Prince Who Chose Passion Over Power
Beyond the pitch, Rufai’s story reads like a fable. He was born into royalty in Idimu, Lagos, and was next in line to the throne following his father’s death in 1999. Yet he refused kingship, declaring, “I lost the opportunity to be king, but I never regretted it—football was my calling.” His humility and dedication won hearts far beyond his homeland.
A Legacy Forged in Grit and Grace
After hanging up his gloves, Rufai continued to give back. He founded Staruf Football Academy in Spain, mentoring young goalkeepers and nurturing dreams, just as he once nurtured Nigeria’s hopes on the field.
As news of his death spread, tributes poured in from every corner:
President Bola Tinubu hailed Rufai as “a patriotic sportsman who wrote his name in gold.”
Peter Obi remembered his “unforgettable saves that inspired a generation.”
Ibrahim Gusau, National Sports Commission Chairman, called his death “an enormous loss to Nigerian sports.”
Former teammates like Mutiu Adepoju, Ahmed Musa, and Segun Odegbami also shared emotional messages, highlighting Rufai’s leadership, humour, and unshakable team spirit. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar joined the nation in honouring his memory.
A Life of Influence and Immortality
Whether on the field making impossible saves or off it, mentoring the next generation, Peter Rufai lived with courage, compassion, and purpose. He was more than a Super Eagle—he was a beacon of resilience, a cultural ambassador, and a man who believed that dreams should never be benched.
Final Whistle
Rufai passed away at about 6 a.m. on Thursday in Lagos, surrounded by loved ones. His family described his passing as “irreplaceable,” and funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.
In Loving Memory
From standing tall in front of goal to stepping aside from a throne, Peter “Dodo Mayana” Rufai lived an extraordinary life—marked by sacrifice, success, and service. As Nigeria weeps, it also stands proud, grateful for the man who guarded its net and its dreams.
Rest in power, Legend. Your gloves may be laid to rest, but your name will forever echo in the chants of a grateful nation.
