Peter Rufai, former Super Eagles goalkeeper and one of Nigeria’s most iconic football figures, has died.
Fondly called “Dodomayana”, Rufai reportedly passed away in the early hours of Thursday morning after a prolonged illness.
As at the time of filing this report, his family has not issued any official statement.
Rufai, 61, was renowned for his remarkable career as Nigeria’s first-choice goalkeeper during the 1990s. He famously guarded the posts for the Super Eagles during their 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) triumph in Tunisia and also featured at the USA ’94 and France ’98 FIFA World Cups.
Over his distinguished career, Rufai played professionally in Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain, including stints with Deportivo La Coruña and Hércules CF. He was widely praised for his agility, leadership, and commitment to the national team during his international career, which spanned over a decade.
Nicknamed “Dodomayana” after a traditional title linked to his royal heritage in Lagos, Rufai was not only a footballer but also a cultural figure who inspired many young athletes.
Details regarding funeral arrangements and a formal family statement are still being awaited.
More details to follow…