Nigeria’s football fraternity and global fans are in mourning following the death of former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Prince Peter Rufai, popularly known as “Dodo Mayana.”
The revered football icon passed away in the early hours of Thursday, July 3, 2025, at age 61, after a brief illness. Widely respected for his leadership on and off the pitch, Rufai leaves behind a legacy that transcends football.
In a statement, the Rufai family confirmed his passing and expressed their deep grief. “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the transition of our father and brother, Prince Peter Rufai, to glory,” the statement read. “Despite our shock and sadness, we are grateful to God for the impactful life he lived, marked by excellence and patriotism.” The family added that further details regarding his burial would be communicated in due course.
Peter Rufai’s career began with the Sharks Football Club in Port Harcourt in the late 1970s, but his rise was meteoric. He became Nigeria’s first goalkeeper to feature at a FIFA World Cup, representing the country at USA ’94 and France ’98. A key part of the Super Eagles’ golden era, Rufai played in four Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments and was instrumental in the team’s historic 1994 triumph in Tunisia.
Rufai earned 66 caps for Nigeria, scoring once, an unusual feat for a goalkeeper. But beyond his national service, he built an impressive club career across Europe. From the Benin Republic and Belgium to stints in the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain, his name earned respect across borders. He played for top sides including Deportivo La Coruña and Farense, becoming one of Nigeria’s most accomplished football exports.
After retiring from professional football, Rufai turned his focus to youth and grassroots development. Through his sports initiative, Staruf Sports Development Limited, he mentored countless aspiring athletes and championed local talent across Nigeria. His commitment to the game never waned, as he continued to inspire new generations both on and off the field.
Since news of his death broke, tributes have poured in from across the world. Nigerian footballers, clubs, fans, and international bodies have celebrated his life, remembering Rufai not only as a brilliant goalkeeper but also as a trailblazer and humble servant of the game.
