President Tinubu Mourns Legendary Goalkeeper Peter Rufai
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, who died at the age of 61.
Fondly known as ‘Dodomayana’ by fans across the nation, Rufai was celebrated not only for his remarkable goalkeeping skills but also for his unwavering patriotism and immense contributions to Nigerian football.
In a heartfelt condolence message to the Rufai family, friends, and the wider football community, President Tinubu paid tribute to the football icon, describing him as “one of those patriotic sportsmen who wrote their names in gold in the sporting annals of Nigeria and the African continent.”
He recalled Rufai’s vital role in Nigeria’s historic 1994 Africa Cup of Nations victory in Tunisia, where he stood tall as the Super Eagles’ first-choice goalkeeper.
Rufai also played a significant part in Nigeria’s debut FIFA World Cup appearance in the same year (USA ’94), and returned again with the national team for the 1998 World Cup in France.
Beginning his career with Lagos-based Stationery Stores in 1980, Rufai was among the first wave of Nigerian players to venture into European football. He featured in clubs across Belgium, Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands, proudly flying the nation’s flag and paving the way for generations of footballers to come.
Beyond his playing days, Rufai continued to serve the game through the Staruf Football Academy, where he mentored and developed young talents, passing on his knowledge and passion for football.
President Tinubu prayed for strength for those mourning his loss and for the peaceful repose of the legendary goalkeeper’s soul.
