The family of the late Nigerian football icon, Prince Peter Rufai, has extended heartfelt appreciation to Nigerians both at home and abroad for the overwhelming support and condolence messages received following his passing.
Fondly known as “Dodo Mayana,” the legendary former Super Eagles goalkeeper died peacefully at 6:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 3, 2025, after a brief illness. He was 61 years old.
In a statement issued on behalf of the family, his loved ones described the news of his passing as a great shock but expressed gratitude to God for the impactful, exemplary life Rufai lived.
“With total submission to the will of Almighty God, it is with a heavy heart that we announce the transition to glory of our father and brother, the legendary former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Prince Peter ‘Dodo Mayana’ Rufai,” the family announced.
Peter Rufai’s journey in football began in the late 1970s with Sharks Football Club of Port Harcourt. From these humble beginnings, he rose to national and international prominence, eventually becoming one of Africa’s most celebrated goalkeepers.
He made history as Nigeria’s first-ever goalkeeper to play at the FIFA World Cup, representing the nation at both the USA 1994 and France 1998 tournaments. In addition, he participated in four Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) competitions and was instrumental in Nigeria’s victory at the 1994 edition held in Tunisia.
Rufai earned a total of 66 caps for the Super Eagles and remains one of the few goalkeepers globally remembered for scoring a goal during his international career.
His club career spanned several countries including Benin Republic, Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain — where he built a solid reputation as a reliable and skilled shot-stopper.
Following his retirement from professional football, Rufai returned to Nigeria and founded Staruf Sports Development Limited, dedicating himself to youth empowerment and grassroots sports initiatives, a mission he pursued passionately until his passing.
The family expressed sincere appreciation to all who have reached out with messages of love, condolence, and support. They assured the public that plans for his funeral are underway and details will be announced in due course.
“We thank everyone for your love and expression of sympathy. A formal announcement of the burial arrangements will be made in due course,” the statement concluded.
The announcement was jointly signed by members of the Rufai family, including his children, siblings, and other close relatives.
