“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”
“A Patriot in Gloves”: President Tinubu Mourns Peter Rufai’s Passing
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has led the nation in mourning the loss of Peter Rufai, one of Nigeria’s most iconic goalkeepers, who passed away on Thursday, July 3, 2025, at the age of 61 after a prolonged illness.
In a heartfelt tribute released by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described Rufai — popularly known as “Dodo Mayana” — as one of Nigeria’s most patriotic sportsmen, whose contributions to the nation’s football history will never be forgotten.
“The President condoles with the Rufai family, friends, and football enthusiasts on the demise of the inimitable goalkeeper fondly called ‘Dodo Mayana’ by his numerous fans and football lovers all over Nigeria,” the statement read.
“President Tinubu notes that Peter Rufai would be remembered as one of those patriotic sportsmen who wrote their names in gold in the sporting annals of Nigeria and the African continent.”
Rufai was Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper during the Super Eagles’ historic 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory in Tunisia — a landmark moment in the country’s football history. He also manned the posts in Nigeria’s debut FIFA World Cup appearance in 1994 and again at the 1998 edition in France.
“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, followed up with Nigeria’s equally epoch-making, first appearance at the FIFA World Cup competition, dubbed USA ’94,” Tinubu added.
“Rufai was also a strong member of the team at the subsequent edition of the competition in France in 1998.”
President Tinubu also praised Rufai’s trailblazing professional career, noting that he was among the first Nigerian footballers to break into the European leagues — featuring in Belgium, Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands — thus paving the way for generations of Nigerian talents.
“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… bringing honour to the nation and opening a new window of opportunities for young footballers in Nigeria,” the statement continued.
Beyond the pitch, Rufai was celebrated for his contributions to youth development. After retirement, he established the Staruf Football Academy in Lagos, where he mentored aspiring footballers and championed the growth of grassroots football.
“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,” Tinubu said.
The President concluded his tribute by offering prayers for the repose of Rufai’s soul and comfort for his family, friends, and fans.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa, and many others from Nigeria’s sporting and political spheres have also expressed deep sorrow over Rufai’s death, hailing him as a legend whose legacy will endure across generations.
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