President Tinubu, Governor Sanwo-Olu, NFF, NPFL Pay Tribute to ‘Dodomayana,’ Celebrating His Legacy and Impact on Nigerian Football
President Bola Tinubu has expressed profound sadness over the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, who died at the age of 61.
In a statement released on Thursday by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President extended his condolences to the Rufai family, friends, and football lovers on the loss of the remarkable goalkeeper, fondly known as ‘Dodomayana’ by his numerous fans across Nigeria.
President Tinubu emphasized that Peter Rufai would always be remembered as one of the patriotic sportsmen who inscribed their names in gold in the history of Nigerian and African sports.
Reflecting on Rufai’s contributions, he said:
“I recall with fond memories the heroic contributions of Peter Rufai in the historic victory of the Super Eagles at the 1994 edition of the Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia as the first-choice goalkeeper, followed up with Nigeria’s equally epoch-making, first appearance at the FIFA World Cup competition, dubbed USA ’94.
“Rufai was also a strong member of the team at the subsequent edition of the competition in France in 1998.
“Having started his career with Stationery Stores of Lagos in 1980, Rufai was one of the earliest footballers in Nigeria to go professional, playing in many European countries including Belgium, Spain, Portugal and the Netherlands, bringing honour to the nation and opening a new window of opportunities for young footballers in Nigeria.
“After he retired from active football, Peter, a Prince of the Royal House in Idimu, Lagos, set up the Staruf Football Academy, where he continued to inspire, mentor and nurture young footballers.”
The President offered prayers for comfort to all mourning Rufai’s passing and for the peaceful repose of Rufai’s soul.
Similarly, Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described Peter Rufai’s death as a significant loss to Nigeria, especially to football enthusiasts.
Governor Sanwo-Olu noted that the passing of the Nigerian football legend is deeply painful. He extended his sympathies to Rufai’s family, friends, colleagues, the Nigerian Football Federation, and the Nigeria Sports Commission.
In a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, the Governor praised Peter Rufai, affectionately known as Dodomayana, as a legend who proudly wore the Green-White-Green jersey.
“The death of Dodomayana, as Peter Rufai is fondly called, is a painful loss to our country, Lagos State and Nigeria. The country has lost a legend and national icon. He was one of the best Nigerian goalkeepers in football history.
“On behalf of the government and people of Lagos State, I offer my heartfelt condolences to Nigerians and Lagosians in particular, especially those with fond memories of Dodomayana of the famous Stationery Stores Football Club. Peter Rufai was a good ambassador of our dear State and Nigeria. His death is a great loss to us.
“I am saddened by his death and he will be sorely missed. I pray to God for eternal peace for the late Peter Rufai. May God grant the family, friends and football fans the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,” Governor Sanwo-Olu concluded.
General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, also expressed shock at the news of the passing of the beloved goalkeeper, fondly known as Dodo Mayana.
“This is really, really shocking. Peter Rufai dead? What happened? I am perplexed. We did not even know that he had been ill. We earnestly pray to the Almighty God to grant him eternal rest, and to comfort all his loved ones as well as the entire Nigeria football family,” Dr. Sanusi stated.
Former Nigeria international midfielder, Waidi Akanni, who confirmed Rufai’s passing to THISDAY, expressed deep sadness over the loss of the flamboyant footballer.
He was also the first to confirm that Rufai’s body had been deposited at a hospital in Lagos.
Chairman of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), Otunba Gbenga Elegbeleye, described Rufai’s death as heartbreaking, emphasizing that he was a true ambassador of the league and a source of inspiration to younger players.
“Rufai was a gentleman who was always willing to support the league whenever he was invited to grace our events such as workshops and fixture draws.
“To the younger players, he was the big brother they all looked up to because like them, he played in the domestic league before seeking greener pastures in Europe.
“He returned home after retirement and has been helping our young ones learn the art of goalkeeping through his annual boot camps,” Elegbeleye recalled.
Super Eagles Captain, Ahmed Musa, also paid tribute to Peter Rufai, writing on his X handle:
“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.
“May your spirit continue to inspire future generations of Super Eagles. Though you’ve left us, your legacy soars higher than any trophy. Fly high, DODOMAYANA — the nation mourns a hero.
“Condolences to your family, friends, teammates, and fans. Rest in peace, legend,” concluded the former Leicester City winger.
Peter Rufai made his debut for the then Green Eagles in a friendly match in December 1981. He won Africa Cup of Nations silver medals in 1984 and 1988, before Nigeria claimed the championship title in Tunisia in 1994, where he served as the first-choice goalkeeper in all three tournaments.
The charismatic and disciplined goalkeeper also represented Nigeria at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cup tournaments, where the Super Eagles reached the Round of 16 on both occasions. After retiring, he dedicated his life to discovering and mentoring young players and at one time served as the coordinator of Nigeria’s U23 team.
In addition to his memorable performances with the Super Eagles, Rufai was an iconic figure at Lagos-based club Stationery Stores, where he played a vital role in leading the team to the final of the Africa Cup Winners Cup in 1981.
