President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Super Eagles goalkeeper and Nigerian football legend, Peter Rufai, describing him as a national hero who brought immense honour to the country and inspired generations through his illustrious career.
Rufai, fondly known as “Dodomayana” by fans, died at the age of 61, sparking widespread mourning across Nigeria’s football community and beyond.
In a condolence message issued by the State House, President Tinubu paid glowing tribute to the late goalkeeper, highlighting his pivotal role in some of the most iconic moments in Nigerian football history and praising his enduring legacy both on and off the pitch.
“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. He followed that up with Nigeria’s equally epoch-making, first appearance at the FIFA World Cup competition, dubbed USA ’94”, Tinubu said.
President Tinubu further noted Rufai’s involvement in Nigeria’s second World Cup appearance in France in 1998, cementing his legacy as a key figure in the country’s golden generation of football.
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Beginning his career in 1980 with Stationery Stores of Lagos, Rufai was among the early trailblazers who took Nigerian football to the global stage.
He went on to play professionally across Europe, featuring in clubs in Belgium, Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands.
According to the President, Rufai not only showcased Nigerian talent abroad but also helped pave the way for future generations of footballers to pursue international careers.
“Rufai brought honour to the nation and opened a new window of opportunities for young footballers in Nigeria,” Tinubu remarked.
Beyond his playing days, Rufai remained devoted to nurturing football talent in Nigeria.
The President acknowledged the former goalkeeper’s post-retirement commitment to youth development through the Staruf Football Academy, which he founded to mentor aspiring players.
“A Prince of the Royal House in Idimu, Lagos, Peter Rufai continued to inspire and uplift others through football, even after retirement. His legacy will endure not just in highlight reels and record books, but in the lives of those he mentored,” Tinubu stated.
The President extended his heartfelt condolences to the Rufai family, friends, former teammates, and the entire Nigerian football community, praying for comfort to all who mourn and for the repose of Rufai’s soul.
Peter Rufai earned over 60 caps for the national team during a storied international career that spanned nearly two decades.
His calm demeanour, leadership on the pitch, and acrobatic saves earned him legendary status among fans and peers alike.
