The Association of Retired Nigerian Sportsmen & Women has expressed deep sorrow over the sudden death of former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, describing his passing as a devastating blow to Nigerian sports.
In an official statement signed by the association’s president, Sunday Adeleye, Rufai was hailed as “a symbol of excellence, patriotism, and resilience” whose legacy transcends football.
Nicknamed “Dodo Mayana,” Rufai earned 65 caps for the Super Eagles and was Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cups. He played a crucial role in Nigeria’s historic Africa Cup of Nations triumph in Tunisia in 1994, solidifying his place as one of the greatest goalkeepers in the country’s history.
“His death is not just a loss to the football community, but to the entire Nigerian sports family,” the statement read.
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“Peter Rufai was more than just a former Super Eagles goalkeeper — he was a symbol of excellence, patriotism, and resilience.”
After hanging up his gloves, Rufai remained active in the sporting community, serving as a mentor and inspiration to young athletes across Nigeria.
“He was respected for his talent and leadership, but also admired for the dignity with which he carried himself after retirement — a model for all Nigerian sportsmen and women, both past and present.”
The association extended condolences to Rufai’s family, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), his former teammates, and all Nigerians who were impacted by his contributions on and off the pitch.
“May we all find comfort in the legacy he has left behind — one marked by excellence, courage, and unwavering commitment to the green and white of Nigeria.”
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