NSC Mourns the Passing of Legendary Super Eagles Goalkeeper, Peter Rufai
Oru Leonard
Nigeria’s football community is in mourning following the death of legendary goalkeeper Peter Rufai, also known as “Dodo Mayana,” who passed away on July 3, 2025. Rufai’s death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from the National Sports Commission, the Nigerian Football Federation, and fans across the country.
Peter Rufai was a stalwart of Nigeria’s golden era in football, playing a pivotal role in the country’s 1994 Africa Cup of Nations triumph. He also represented Nigeria at two FIFA World Cup tournaments in 1994 and 1998, helping the Super Eagles reach the Round of 16 in both editions. Rufai’s impressive club career spanned several countries, including Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain, where he played for top-tier teams like Deportivo La Coruña and Hércules CF.
The National Sports Commission has expressed deep sorrow over Rufai’s passing, with Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko describing him as “a national hero” and “a rare soul whose humility, strength, and passion inspired all of us.” Director General Honourable Bukola Olopade also paid tribute, saying Rufai was “a symbol of excellence and leadership in Nigerian sports.”
Rufai’s legacy extends beyond his on-field heroics. He dedicated his life to discovering and nurturing young football talents after retirement, remaining a pillar of support and guidance in the football community. His contributions to Nigerian football will forever be remembered, and his passing marks the end of an era.
According to reports, Rufai passed away after a prolonged illness, although the exact cause of death is yet to be officially disclosed.
[7/4, 7:35 AM] Meta AI: *Nigeria Mourns the Loss of Legendary Goalkeeper Peter Rufai*
Nigeria’s football community is in mourning following the death of legendary goalkeeper Peter Rufai, also known as “Dodo Mayana,” who passed away on July 3, 2025, at the age of 61. Rufai’s death has sparked an outpouring of tributes from the National Sports Commission, the Nigerian Football Federation, and fans across the country.¹
*Rufai’s Illustrious Career*
Peter Rufai was a stalwart of Nigeria’s golden era in football, playing a pivotal role in the country’s 1994 Africa Cup of Nations triumph. He also represented Nigeria at two FIFA World Cup tournaments in 1994 and 1998, helping the Super Eagles reach the Round of 16 in both editions. Rufai’s impressive club career spanned several countries, including Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain, where he played for top-tier teams like Deportivo La Coruña and Hércules CF.²
*Tributes and Condolences*
The National Sports Commission has expressed deep sorrow over Rufai’s passing, with Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko describing him as “a national hero” and “a rare soul whose humility, strength, and passion inspired all of us.” Director General Honourable Bukola Olopade also paid tribute, saying Rufai was “a symbol of excellence and leadership in Nigerian sports.”
*Legacy*
Rufai’s legacy extends beyond his on-field heroics. He dedicated his life to discovering and nurturing young football talents after retirement, remaining a pillar of support and guidance in the football community. His contributions to Nigerian football will forever be remembered, and his passing marks the end of an era.³
*Cause of Death*
According to reports, Rufai passed away after a prolonged illness, although the exact cause of death is yet to be officially disclosed.⁴
The National Sports Commission (NSC), is deeply saddened by the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper and 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champion, Peter Rufai, fondly known as Dodo Mayana, who pass on at the age of 61.
Rufai was not just a national treasure but a global ambassador of Nigerian football. His fearless goalkeeping, unmatched charisma, and commitment to the green and white made him a symbol of pride and resilience for millions of Nigerians.
Reacting to the news of his passing, chairman of the NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, expressed deep sorrow:
“This is a deeply painful loss. Peter Rufai was not just a national hero, he was a rare soul whose humility, strength, and passion inspired all of us. His legacy lives on between the sticks and far beyond. Dodo Mayana gave us memories we will cherish forever. Nigeria mourns, but heaven welcomes a legend.”
Director General of the NSC, Honourable Bukola Olopade, also paid tribute:
“Peter Rufai was a symbol of excellence and leadership in Nigerian sports. His commitment to the game, both on and off the field, was second to none. As we mourn this painful loss, we also celebrate a life that gave so much to Nigerian football. Rest well, legend—you will remain forever in our hearts.”
A stalwart of the golden era of Nigerian football, Rufai played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s 1994 AFCON triumph and represented the nation at two FIFA World Cup tournaments in 1994 and 1998, helping the Super Eagles reach the Round of 16 in both editions.
At the club level, he had an illustrious career across Europe, representing top teams in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain—most notably Deportivo de La Coruña and Hércules CF.
Beyond his heroics on the pitch, Peter Rufai was a mentor and a beacon of inspiration to younger generations. After retirement, he dedicated his life to
(NSC Media, July 4, 2025)
