Former Nigerian Goalkeeper Legend, Peter Rufai popularly known as “Dodomayana,” has died at the age of 61.
The Nigerian football community is in mourning following the death of former Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 61 after a brief illness.
Rufai, fondly known as “Dodo Mayana”, was a revered figure in Nigerian football and a key member of the Super Eagles squad that won the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Tunisia. He also featured in Nigeria’s first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance that same year in the United States, solidifying his status as one of the greatest goalkeepers in the nation’s history.
Announcing his death, the Super Eagles paid tribute to their former shot stopper on their official X (formerly Twitter) handle:
“We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, a giant of Nigerian football and a 1994 AFCON champion. Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well, Peter Rufai.”
Rufai earned 65 caps for Nigeria, bringing calm and authority to the goalpost for over a decade. In 1993, he etched his name into history when he scored a penalty in Nigeria’s 6–0 win over Ethiopia, a rare feat for a goalkeeper.
His club career spanned Nigeria and several European countries, including stints at Dragons de l’Ouémé (Benin Republic), Lokeren and Beveren (Belgium), Go Ahead Eagles (Netherlands), and Farense and Gil Vicente (Portugal). Known for his quick reflexes and acrobatic saves, Rufai’s prowess earned him the nickname “Dodo Mayana”.
Following his retirement, Rufai remained committed to the development of football. In 2023, he enrolled at the National Institute for Sports in Lagos to obtain coaching qualifications, highlighting his dedication to nurturing future talents.
Tributes Pour In for a National Hero
Condolences have continued to pour in from across Nigeria and beyond. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described Rufai’s passing as a profound loss:
“His death is a profound loss to the global football community. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his immediate family and the Nigerian football community. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”
Super Eagles forward Ahmed Musa also paid tribute: “Can’t believe I’m typing this – a post to bid farewell to a true giant of Nigerian football, Peter Rufai. Your heroic reflexes and unwavering presence between the posts brought us moments of pride on the world stage.”
“Though you’ve left us, your legacy soars higher than any trophy. Fly high, DODOMAYANA — the nation mourns a hero. Rest in peace, legend.”
Rufai’s death coincided with the tragic passing of Liverpool and Portugal star Diogo Jota, who died in a car crash in Spain on the same day—making it a somber moment for the global football fraternity.
Peter Rufai will be remembered not only for his incredible achievements on the pitch but also for his humility, leadership, and passion for the game. His legacy lives on in the hearts of football lovers across Nigeria and beyond.
