Nigeria Mourns As Football Legend Peter Rufai Passes On

‎The Super Eagles paid homage to former Nigerian goalkeeper and 1994 Africa Cup of Nations winner, Peter Rufai, following the news of his passing.

‎In a statement released on Thursday through X, the national team referred to Rufai, affectionately called “Dodo Mayana,” as a towering figure in Nigerian football history whose legacy would live on forever.

‎“Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana. We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper, Peter Rufai, a giant of Nigerian football and a 1994 AFCON champion,” the statement read.

‎The statement lauded Rufai’s legacy, particularly his heroics between the posts and his influence beyond the pitch.

‎“Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well, Peter Rufai,” it added.

‎Peter Rufai passed away on Thursday, July 3, 2025, after battling a long-term illness that had kept him out of the public eye for some time.

‎As of now, neither his family nor the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has officially confirmed his death.

‎Celebrated as one of Nigeria’s greatest goalkeepers, Rufai had an illustrious career, earning 65 caps for the national team.

‎He represented Nigeria in two World Cup tournaments and played a key role in Nigeria’s triumph at the 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).